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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Advertising Index ...............................................81 Appalachian Ski Mountain.................................31 Art galleries ....................................................... 53 Ashe County ...................................................... 33 ASU Performing Arts Series ...............................61 Banner Elk ......................................................... 23 Beech Mountain Resort..................................... 36 Blowing Rock ..................................................... 30 Blowing Rock Art and History Museum ........... 59 Blowing Rock WinterFest ................................. 48 Blue Ridge Parkway .......................................... 25 Breweries ........................................................... 67 Calendar ............................................................ 70 Caving .................................................................21 Chambers of commerce....................................... 8 Choose-and-cut Christmas trees ....................... 44 Crossnore School ............................................... 38 Downtown Boone ...............................................18 Emergency numbers ........................................... 5 Fishing ............................................................... 22 Foscoe/Grandfather Community.......................41 Frescoes ............................................................. 52 General stores.................................................... 64 Grandfather Mountain ...................................... 24 Hawksnest ......................................................... 28 High Country Host .............................................. 9 HighCountryNC.com .......................................... 6 Holiday fun ........................................................ 56 Mystery Hill ........................................................51 Skiing .................................................................. 17 Snow gear .......................................................... 32 Snow tubing ........................................................15 Snowboarding ....................................................16 Snowshoeing...................................................... 20 Spas.................................................................... 46 Sugar Mountain Resort ..................................... 26 Theater............................................................... 62 Towns of the High Country ................................. 9 Trails .................................................................. 35 Valle Crucis .........................................................14 Wineries............................................................. 66 Winter driving ................................................... 50
Trek up Rich Mountain This trail is used in the winter for cross country skiers, but is a great family hike that ends at 4,199 feet. It is also part of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail. This is the second named mountain with the same name in the area and is located just above Yonahlossee. PHOTO BY ROB MOORE
About The Cover
The cover of this year’s 2015-16 Winter Times was provided by The Crossnore School in Crossnore, N.C. For more information on the school, turn to page 38.
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er t n i W 2015 Winter Times Staff Gene Fowler Jr. Publisher
in the Mountains
Charlie Price Advertising Director Tom Mayer Editor
Numbers of Note Avery County
Law Enforcement Watauga County Watauga County Sheriff’s Office (828) 264-3761 Boone Police Department (828) 268-6900 Blowing Rock Police (828) 295-5210 Appalachian Regional Healthcare System Police (828) 262-4168 Appalachian State Police (828) 262-2150
Ashe County Ashe County Sheriff’s Office (336) 846-5633 Jefferson Police (336) 846-5529 West Jefferson Police (336) 246-9410
Avery County Sheriff’s Office (828) 733-2071 Banner Elk Police (828) 898-4300 Elk Park Police Department (828) 733-9573 Newland Police Department (828) 733-2024 Seven Devils Police Department (828) 963-6760 Sugar Mountain Police (828) 898-4349 Beech Mountain Police (828) 387-2342
Health Care Watauga Medical Center (Boone) (828) 262-4100 Blowing Rock Hospital (828) 295-3136
Cannon Memorial Hospital (Linville) (828) 737-7000 Ashe Memorial Hospital (Jefferson) (336) 846-7101 FastMed Urgent Care (Boone) (828) 265-7146 AppUrgent Care (Boone) (828) 265-5505
Animal Control Watauga County Animal Control (828) 262-1672 Watauga Humane Society (Boone) (828) 264-7865 Animal Emergency & Pet Care Clinic of the High Country (Boone) (828) 268-2833
Rob Moore Production Chief Johnny Hayes Sandra Shook Layout Artists Emily Robb Production Specialist Andy Gainey Circulation Manager Matt Debnam, Jesse Campbell, Jeff Eason, Erika Giovanetti, Erik Hoffmann, James Howell, Anna Oakes, Garrett Price, Jamie Shell, Matt Laws and Sandra Shook Writers Rick Tobin and Mark Mitchell Sales Meleah Bryan Creative Services Director Marianne Koch, Kristin Obiso Creative Services
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PHOTO BY JESSE CAMPBELL The High Country offers unique ways for locals and visitors alike to enjoy themselves. Snow tubing, for instance, has exploded in popularity in the last decade.
Live the adventure
HighCountryNC.com gives visitors a one-stop destination for all things tourist
S
ince May 2014, HighCountryNC.com has made navigating the High Country easier than ever. HighCountryNC.com is packed with stories and photographs of regional events, activities and attractions, making it the leading tourism website of the High Country. “High Country NC is a unique tourism resource for visitors and locals in the area,” said Erika Giovanetti, a member of the HCNC Content Committee. “We’re able to keep content fresh with input from writers who have grown up here, or who chose to live here for many reasons — including a love for the Blue Ridge Mountains and all the outdoor adventures they present.” High Country NC highlights the outdoor activities available throughout the region, including where to hike, bike, fish, golf and skiing. The site also keeps tabs on important events and festivals that visitors can attend, along with entertainment, restaurants, shops and hotels to engage visitors during their sojourn through the High Country. The site also features countdown
HighCountryNC.com live the adventure lists. Have you ever wondered where the best mountain views in the High Country are? That and so much more is available on HighCountryNC.com. “Not only does High Country NC offer resources for where to stay, play and eat, but our website also keeps readers in the know with breaking news,’ Giovanetti said. “High Country NC’s journalists are on the scene documenting hiking trails, ski slopes and
other attractions with photographs and firsthand reports.” The journalists who contribute to High Country NC belong to Mountain Times Publications, which is the largest regional media group in the area. The website also accompanies our seasonal magazines: Winter Times, Autumn Times and Summer Times. Together, these publications have won multiple awards for content and
design. “Our staff of writers and reporters update HighCountryNC.com weekly with seasonal stories that engage viewers and encourage visitors. We share our stories on our Facebook pages to reach thousands of current and new viewers,” said Mountain Times Publications Advertising Director Charlie Price. HighCountryNC.com also presents a unique opportunity for advertisers who are looking for exposure to tourists from outside the region. According to Price, 70 percent of HighCountryNC.com’s visitors are from cities outside of the High Country, including North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. Mountain Times Publications’ newspaper websites have more than a million unique visitors each year, with more than 10 million page views. The addition of HighCountryNC.com in 2014 has only added to these figures, boosting Mountain Times reach online. If you’re interested in exploring the beautiful High Country, visit HighCountryNC.com to get your journey started. We hope to see you there!
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HIGH COUNTRY CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE ASHE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Ashe County, home to the Jeffersons (West Jefferson and Jefferson, that is), is just about as far as you can go in the High Country before entering Southwestern Virginia. The county is considered, in many respects, a step back in time to the way the Appalachian Mountains used to be. The chamber can direct travelers through the scenic and sparsely populated area of Christmas tree farms and rugged mountain landscapes, while offering a wide selection of brochures and maps.
1 N. Jefferson Ave. West Jefferson, N.C. 28694 (336) 846-9550 ashechamber@skybest.com www.ashechamber.com
AVERY COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Avery County Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center is conveniently located in the Shoppes at Tynecastle at the intersection of N.C. 105 and N.C. 184. The center offers information on lodging, dining, attractions, shopping
and other businesses in Avery County.
4501 Tynecastle Highway, No. 2 Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-5605 chamber@averycounty.com www.averycounty.com
BANNER ELK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Located in the heart of town, the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce promotes the area as a unique place to live in, work and visit. Information on area lodging, dining, shopping and more is available Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and by visiting www.bannerelk. org.
100 W. Main St. Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-8395 bechamber@skybest.com www.bannerelk.org
BEECH MOUNTAIN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Whether you’re looking for a North
Carolina mountain vacation full of adventure, or just a few days to relax and breathe the fresh mountain air, Beech Mountain, at an elevation of 5,506 feet, will give your soul something to smile about. The area offers plenty of activities and attractions for the whole family to enjoy, but also plenty of peace and quiet for a relaxing and rejuvenating time. The Beech Mountain Chamber of Commerce is here to help.
403-A Beech Mountain Parkway Beech Mountain, N.C. 28604 (828) 387-9283 chamber@beechmtn.com www.beechmountainchamber.com
BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Blowing Rock is considered one of the crown jewels of the Blue Ridge. Its chamber of commerce knows this tightknit community as no one else, and its representatives are always willing to share this knowledge with visitors. Aside from general information, lists of camping and fishing sites, and brochures, the Blowing Rock Chamber of
Commerce also has a generous stock of menus from the town’s many eateries.
132 Park Ave. Blowing Rock, N.C. 28605 (828) 295-7851 info@blowingrock.com www.blowingrockncchamber.com
BOONE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The Boone Area Chamber of Commerce is one of the High Country’s most active chambers, with both a dedicated membership and an overall commitment to the betterment of the area as both a vacation destination and business hub. Now at a new location in downtown Boone on King Street, the chamber is an ideal place to stop for information on area activities, brochures and maps of the community.
870 W. King St., Suite A, Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-2225 info@boonechamber.com www.boonechamber.com
Classic Surroundings, Modern Amenities
Contemporary American Casual Dining ESTD. 1882
Chestnut Grille
Divide Tavern
www.greenparkinn.com www.greenparkinn.co 828.414.9230 | 9239 Valley Blvd Blowing Rock, NC 28605
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Where to begin? How about the High Country Host
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Boone is the hub of Watauga County and home to Appalachian State University.
L
ooking for weather reports, maps or personal assistance? Look no further than the High Country Host Visitor Center at 1700 Blowing Rock Road in Boone. The visitor information center, open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., provides tourism information for visitors to the area. The center offers information about activities and excursions, as well as alternative activities according to the ever-changing winter weather in the High Country. The visitor center offers one-stop quick information at its location in Boone, while serving activities and destinations in Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Watauga and Wilkes counties across the region. The visitor center can also set visitors up with lodging and travel information, as well, according to Candice Cook, High Country Host marketing director. If you are not in town yet, but would like to take advantage of the High Country Host’s information and services, visit its website at http://highcountryhost.com/. The High Country Host’s visitor center will be relocating sometime during 2016, but will be staying at its current location all winter and into the spring months, according to Cook.
Our Towns High Country displays the culture of the mountain communities Watauga County BOONE No matter which activity draws you to the High Country, it’s likely that you’ll end up in Boone at some point during your visit. Boone is the hub of Watauga County, the gathering place for people of all walks of life, whether resident or visitor, student or retiree, socialite or seeker of peace and quiet. The town is home to Appalachian State University, one of the 17 colleges and universities that make up the University of North Carolina system. The university draws about 17,000 students, with interest in the school having boomed after the Mountaineers’ football team won three consecutive NCAA Division I national championships in 2005, 2006 and 2007. The university’s presence helps create a young and friendly vibe throughout the town. Just make sure not to cross anyone by mispronouncing the name: It’s
pro-nounced “App-uh-latch-un.” Adjacent to the university is King Street and the surrounding downtown area, one of the High Country’s most popular shopping destinations. Oneof-a-kind stores and eclectic boutiques dot the landscape, interspersed with enticing restaurants and colorful galleries. A life-size sculpture of the late Doc Watson, the legendary bluegrass performer, sits at the corner of King and Depot streets. The sculpture honors one of Boone’s prized gems, who, despite nearly lifelong blindness, became one of the most talented and prolific musicians in the genre. Watson died May 29, 2012. Take a stroll to the front steps of the Jones House Community Center, built in 1908. The house was donated to the town in the early 1980s and today houses art galleries and community functions. Departing from downtown, popular restaurant franchises, retail chains and other shopping areas ensure that residents and visitors lack nothing in the way of modern conveniences.
But Boone has an eye on its past, too. Named for the pioneer and explorer Daniel Boone, the town dates back to about 1800, when Jordan Councill opened a store on what is now King Street. In 1820, he opened a post office, and other homes and stores began to spring up nearby. When Watauga County was created in 1849, Boone was picked as the county seat. It remained a typical small town until the university began to grow in the 1960s. Boone is a town where old and new mix, and visitors are made to feel like part of the family. Visit www.townofboone.net.
BLOWING ROCK Blowing Rock manages to pack a ton of beauty and fun into just three square miles. The town’s name comes from an immense cliff overlooking Johns River Gorge, where the winds whip in such a way that light objects thrown SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 10
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OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 9 over the rock float back to their owners. Anyone wishing to experience the phenomenon firsthand can visit The Blowing Rock attraction, which is open certain dates in winter, weather permitting, to showcase the town’s namesake and the Native American legend that surrounds it. For another dose of history, visit the renovated and restored Green Park Inn, a site on the National Register of Historic Places that has been a hotel since 1882. After closing due to age and the recession in May 2009, the building was purchased a year later and promptly underwent a complete overhaul. The inn has since been restored to its former glory, offering lodging, a full bar and fine dining. While clinging to the small-town charm and Southern graciousness of its past, Blowing Rock also includes nearly 20 hotels and inns and more than 100 shops. Find a place to park early in the morning, bundle up and spend the rest of the day on foot, exploring the shops and parks of downtown. Clothing, antiques, home furnishings, mementos and savory treats will fill your shopping bags — and your stomach. Make sure to visit Tanger Shoppes on the Parkway on U.S. 321 to find name-brand items at outlet prices. If they’re not buried in piles of snow, the benches in Memorial Park at the center of Main Street make the perfect spot to settle down with coffee or hot chocolate and watch the world go by. The less-traveled Broyhill Park down Laurel Lane paints the perfect winter scene, complete with snowtopped gazebo and ice-covered pond. The trails surrounding Moses Cone Memorial Park and Bass Lake provide another excellent winter wonderland, as well as a recreation opportunity for those trying out cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. If you visit during the holidays, take a cruise down the length of Main Street and past Chetola Resort to take in the displays of lights, wreaths and beauty of the season. The picturesque town of Blowing
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Flat Top tower sits at the end of the carriage trails and is often used by cross country skiers and hikers during the winter months.
Rock is the perfect place to have an active winter vacation — or to relax and do nothing at all. Visit www.blowingrock.com.
FOSCOE Nestled between Boone and Banner Elk is the unincorporated community of Foscoe. But don’t let its size fool you. The community is brimming with shopping, art, dining and outdoor fun. Shopping includes mementos and more, including the luxurious linens of Dewoolfson Down. For your furry friends, grab some treats, snacks and other tail-wagging goodies at Mountain Dog & Friends. If you’re shopping for outdoor fun, cast a line with Foscoe Fishing Company. Hungry? Burgers, billiards and family fun are on cue at Country Retreat Family Billards. Vacation rentals and more await at Echota, along with one of the views that made Grandfather Mountain famous — the ridgeline’s iconic profile of an old man reclining.
VALLE CRUCIS Just off N.C. 105 south of Boone, Valle Crucis offers simplicity and serenity in a pastoral riverside community. The valley contains the site of the only known Native American vil-
lage in the immediate area. The first European settler of Watauga County, Samuel Hicks, also built a fort in the area during the American Revolution. Today, the community offers several historic inns, farms and churches that provide service and comfort to all who enter. The Episcopal church has played a role throughout the community’s history. An Episcopal bishop entered the community in 1842 and provided its name, which is Latin for the “Vale of the Cross.” The Valle Crucis Conference Center, on the National Register of Historic Places, stays busy with retreats for numerous groups, and Crab Orchard Falls is a short hike from the conference center. The original Mast General Store provides a central gathering space in the community, as it has since 1883. Residents appreciate the store for its post office, morning news and coffee, while visitors can also find gifts, apparel and souvenirs. Just down the road is the Mast Store Annex, which opened about 25 years later. Behind the annex is a gravel road to the Valle Crucis Park, a recreational area with walking paths, riverfront, picnic areas and sports fields. Visit www.vallecrucis.com/.
FILE PHOTO The Todd General Store is an oldfashioned mercantile that dates back to 1914.
TODD Todd is a town so nice it’s claimed by both Watauga and Ashe counties. The community’s main drag, Railroad Grade Road, is popular with bicyclists and walking tours, as it winds along with the New River, one of the few rivers in the world that flows north. The Todd General Store is an oldfashioned mercantile that dates back to 1914 and was built in anticipation
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of the Norfolk and Western “Virginia Creeper” railroad. Todd was the last stop of the route and got much of its supplies from the railroad. Today, the store offers dinner, bluegrass, book signings and demonstrations. The Todd Mercantile features the work of local artists and craftsmen, as well as mountain honey and other local goods. The mercantile regularly hosts square and contra dances, with traditional mountain music by local performers. The river itself provides plenty to do, from canoeing and kayaking in the summer to excellent fishing in the winter. Visit http://toddnc.org/.
SEVEN DEVILS From elevations of some 5,200 feet, the town of Seven Devils straddles both Watauga and Avery counties. Seven Devils is just a few minutes from Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk and Valle Crucis and can be found off N.C. 105. From many areas in the town, one has views of Grandfather Mountain, Beech Mountain, Sugar Mountain, Rich Mountain and Mount Rogers in Virginia. Seven Devils began life in the 1960s as the Seven Devils Resort, and in 1979, the resort became incorporated as the town. How did it get its name? According to the Seven Devils website, “The L.A. Reynolds Industrial District of Winston-Salem, N.C., formed the resort in 1965. … At this time, there was a rumor about an old man on the mountain who had seven sons ‘as mean as the devil.’ People were heard commenting that in the winter, the mountain was ‘as cold as the devils’ or ‘as windy as the devil.’ “The founders wanted a catchy, unique name that would bring attention to the mountain. They noticed the repeated appearance of the number seven, including the seven predominant rocky peaks surrounding Valley Creek, as well as the many coincidental references to ‘devils.’” In the 1960s, the town grew with a golf course, ski slope, lake, riding ground and camping area, eventually becoming incorporated. While the golf course and ski slopes have been closed for a number SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 11
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OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 10 of years, Hawksnest, the former ski resort, has become one of the town’s centerpieces with a host of other outdoor activities. Among its wintertime attractions are snow-tubing and ziplines. For more information and events at Seven Devils, visit www.sevendevils. net.
AVERY COUNTY BANNER ELK The mountain valley town of Banner Elk has grown from a tiny hamlet to a town offering year-round amenities and memorable vacations for the entire family. Banner Elk is home to Lees-McRae College, a small, private, four-year coeducational liberal arts college affiliated with Presbyterian Church U.S.A., with more than 900 students from more than 20 states and countries. Snow-covered old stone buildings across campus make for a photographer’s delight. The town hosts numerous shops and restaurants and stays abuzz with activities and events. Visitors can stroll through the town park, enjoy ample shopping or simply relax by the Mill Pond. Later, they can check in to one of Banner Elk’s many inns and enjoy a gourmet dinner at one of the town’s fine restaurants. Banner Elk is in the heart of the High Country’s many attractions, and just a short drive will take you to numerous natural settings where you can relax and ponder nature’s beauty. Banner Elk also offers many cultural happenings, with a highly acclaimed performing arts program at LeesMcRae and art festivals by some of the area’s many galleries and artisans. Cutting between the peaks of Sugar Mountain, Beech Mountain and Grandfather Mountain, the topography of the town provides natural definition and gentle undulation through the town’s boundaries. For more information or a calendar of events, visit www.bannerelk.org.
BEECH MOUNTAIN Regarded as the highest elevated town in the Eastern United States,
FILE PHOTO Banner Elk is home to Lees-McRae College and has numerous small shops for those who visit nearby Sugar and Beech mountains to ski.
Beech Mountain is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. The slopes at Beech Mountain Resort open in November and offer both beginner and advanced skiers a pristine location to enjoy a winter’s day. Snowboarders can utilize the freestyle terrain park, with manmade terrain, including half-pipes, grind rails and a host of jumps with landing areas. Sledders can enjoy the hilly terrain, while skaters can go to Beech Mountain Resort’s Alpine Village and enjoy the 7,000-square-foot ice skating rink. The rink is located in the middle of Beech Tree Village, making it a unique and memorable experience. Those seeking more old-fashioned fun can head for the town’s popular sledding hill, open to the public. For those wishing to spend an extended stay at the Beech, there are more than 5,000 beds available on top of the mountain for rental, ranging from picturesque cabins to chalets and condominiums. For those not on the slopes or seeking a change of pace, there are numerous shops and restaurants to visit, in addition to an active nightlife with live music and a fun atmosphere. For more information and a full calendar of winter events, visit www.
beechmtn.com.
SUGAR MOUNTAIN The village of Sugar Mountain is an ideal destination for the individual or family looking to enjoy outdoor winter sports, in addition to activities yearround. Sugar Mountain is home to Sugar Mountain Resort, one of the South’s premier winter destination playgrounds. Since 1969, Sugar Mountain Resort has specialized in outdoor recreational fun. The resort is hailed for its challenging trails for the advanced skier and beginner slopes for those snapping on ski bindings for the very first time. Topping out at 5,300 feet above sea level, Sugar Mountain Resort’s chances of receiving natural snow are good. Seasonal snowfall can reach as high as 130 inches. A highlight of the winter season at Sugar Mountain is SugarFest, an annual weekend of winter fun, returning Dec. 12 to 14. For more information, visit www. seesugar.com.
NEWLAND With the highest county seat east of the Mississippi River at 3,589 feet, the town of Newland was incorporated in 1913 as the county seat of the newly
formed Avery County. Its original name was “Old Fields of Toe” because it is located in a broad flat valley at the headwaters of the Toe River. Newland was a mustering place for Civil War troops. Toe is short for “Estatoe,” an Indian chief’s daughter who, according to legend, drowned herself in the river in despair because she could not marry a brave from another tribe. A town of around 700 residents, Newland succeeded over three other areas for the honor of county seat. The historic courthouse, originally constructed in 1913, overlooks a classic town square, bordered by shops, churches and a memorial to Avery County veterans. Adjacent to the courthouse building is the original jail, which has been converted into the Avery County Historical Museum. Exhibits in the museum include the original jail cells, numerous artifacts and information about the history of Avery County. Newland hosts an annual Christmas parade through downtown, with decorations adorning the town reflecting the area’s rich Christmas tree industry. With a number of restaurants and boutiques downtown, Newland is a SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 12
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PHOTO BY ROB MOORE Grandfather Mountain with a frosty look after a snow. This mountain is a well visited tourist destination in Avery County and is just outside of Linville.
OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 11 prime destination for dining and shopping — or just to stop in on a visit to nearby Roan Mountain or Grandfather Mountain. Visit www.townofnewland.com/.
CROSSNORE Crossnore is a town steeped in educational history. Reportedly named after George Crossnore, one of the first settlers of the area in the late 18th century, the community has grown famous for its other namesake, The Crossnore School, founded by Drs. Eustace and Mary Martin Sloop. The Sloops traveled the steep dirt trails in isolated mountain valleys to bring medicine to the people and convince farmers to let their children come to school. Because of poverty and distance,
the Sloops’ school in Crossnore eventually took in boarders and built dormitories to accommodate them. The Sloops also built a hospital, dental clinic and, eventually, a boarding school to give children the basis for an improved life. They brought to Avery County the first electricity, telephone, paved road and boarding school. Through the Sloops’ advocacy, public schools flourished in Avery County. Today, Crossnore Academy carries on the work of the original school and has reclaimed the educational foundation beneath its commitment to give hurting children a chance for a better life. The school is also home to the Crossnore Weavers working museum and gallery, as well as the Miracle Grounds Coffee Shop, a working vocational class-room, featuring specialty coffee drinks, homemade snacks, sandwiches, milk-shakes, ice cream, Wi-Fi and more.
For more information on Crossnore, visit www.crossnorenc.com.
LINVILLE The community of Linville is located just south of the intersection of U.S. 221 and N.C. 105 in Avery County. The community was founded in 1883, designed by Samuel T. Kelsey of Kansas and named for William and John Linville. East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad (ET&WNC) passed through the community from 1916 through 1940, when a major flood washed away the tracks. The old rail route later became N.C. 105 in 1956. Linville has three country clubs in the area: Linville Golf Course, Grandfather Golf and Country Club and Linville Ridge. A number of local tourist areas within a short drive share the Linville name, including the Linville River and majestic Linville Falls, Linville Caverns on U.S. 221 and the Linville Gorge wil-
derness area. During the winter months, Linville is only a short drive to nearby ski slopes at Sugar Mountain and Beech Mountain, popular skiing and snowtubing destinations. Perhaps the most popular tourist attraction housed in Linville is Grandfather Mountain. One of the newest among North Carolina’s state parks, Grandfather Mountain offers hiking trails, picturesque views during all four seasons, animal habitats and attractions and the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge.
ASHE COUNTY WEST JEFFERSON With a thriving arts district, downtown shopping and scenery galore, West Jefferson makes its mark on SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 13
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finished, in part, with American chestnut wood, harvested before the blight reached the northwestern mountains of North Carolina.
OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 12 the High Country as a destination for locals, as well as visitors. The town was built around the Virginia-Carolina Railroad depot during the early 1900s. According to the town’s history, the first ownership of the valley now known as West Jefferson began in 1779 when N.C. Gov. Richard Caswell granted 320 acres to Col. Ben Cleveland, who battled the British at King’s Mountain. More than a century later, the West Jefferson Land Company surveyed the new town and fixed its limits as a square one-half mile north, south, east and west of the Virginia-Carolina Depot. The town was chartered in 1915. The town’s initial growth came through the railroad, but early development was also spurred by the opening of the First National Bank of West Jefferson in 1915. The bank’s branch office, built in 1962, is now home to West Jefferson Town Hall. The town continues to thrive today and has a little something for everyone. Those visiting the town can browse one of the many art galleries, gift shops and retail stores. West Jefferson is home to many varieties of artwork, from paintings and photographs to sculptures and quilted items. More information about the area’s art district can be found at the Ashe Arts Center, located at 303 School Ave., just off of East Main Street. The center is home to the Ashe County Arts Council, which sponsors a variety of community programming and exhibits throughout the year. A popular spot in the town is Ashe County Cheese, where visitors can see cheese being made. They can then go across the street to the Ashe County Cheese Store to purchase a variety of cheeses, from cheddar to pepper jack and all types in between, including the celebrated cheese curds (aka “squeaky cheese”). Old-fashioned snacks and candies and locally made wines can also be purchased at the store. The cheese plant is open year-round and located at 106 E. Main St. in West Jefferson. Local eateries and cafes offer all sorts of tasty treats, coffee, spirits and
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GLENDALE SPRINGS Home of the breath-taking and aweaspiring fresco painting by Ben Long at Holy Trinity Episcopalian Church, Glendale Springs has become revered for its budding arts scene. For more information, visit www. ashechamber.com.
LANSING PHOTO BY JAMES HOWELL West Jefferson was chartered in 1915 and continues to thrive by offering art galleries, gift shops and retail stores.
more, from one end of the town to the other. For more information, visit www. visitwestjefferson.org.
JEFFERSON A rich history, dating from 1799, lies in the picturesque town of Jefferson. Jefferson was founded prior to its counterpart, West Jefferson, and stood at the base of Mount Jefferson. The town was first known as Jeffersonton, but then became Jefferson — one of the first towns in the nation to bear the name of U.S. founding father Thomas Jefferson. The town is the county seat of Ashe and is home to the courthouse, as well as the historic 1904 Courthouse. The Museum of Ashe County History is located in Jefferson and can be found in the 1904 Courthouse. The museum, through items collected and on display, offers a look at who the citizens of the county are, where they came from, how they got to the town, what did they do on the way and where do they go next? Ashe County Park and Foster Tyson Park are also located in Jefferson, the former of which hosts a nationally celebrated disc golf course. To the north of Jefferson are access areas for New River State Park. Visit www.townofjefferson.org/.
CRESTON Located in the northwestern corner of Ashe County, Creston lies on the border of Tennessee. The curvy winding roads can offer
travelers some of the most beautiful scenic byways in the area. The Riverview Community Center is located off of N.C. 88 West in Creston and is home to festivals and other events all year long. Worth’s Chapel at Creston United Methodist Church is located in Creston and was listed as a National Historic Building in 2005. The chapel was built circa 1902. The interior of the chapel is
Whether you’re looking for a town reminiscent of the past or one that offers whispers of tomorrow, the small, friendly town of Lansing beckons to travelers from near and far to visit and relax while browsing its shops, trying some home cooking and taking in the mountain scenery. Lansing, in the northwestern section of Ashe County, is 20 minutes from Jefferson and West Jefferson and only 45 minutes from Boone. Travelers can arrive there in less than an hour from Abingdon, Va., or Mountain City, Tenn. SEE OUR TOWNS, PAGE 15
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www.ValleCrucis.com
Dutch Creek Trails 828-297-7117
St. John’s Church ca. 1858
Little Red School House ca. 1907
Original Mast General Store Est. 1883 828-963-6511
A haven for travelers since the 1800s, Valle Crucis, a National Rural Historic District, offers shops, beautiful bed and breakfast inns, delicious cuisine, wine tasting, rustic cabins, horseback riding, adventure and more.
Valle Crucis Bakery & Cafe 828-963-2555
Valle Crucis Log Cabin Rentals & Sales 828-963-7774
Mast Store Annex Outfitters & Candy Barrel ca. 1909 828-963-6511
Rivercross Made in USA 828-963-8623
Mast Farm Inn Lodging & Restaurant ca. 1812 828-963-5857
Over Yonder Restaurant & Bar 828-963-6301
Taylor House Inn Bed & Breakfast ca. 1911 800-963-5581
Valle Crucis Community Web Directory Dutch Creek Trails - dutchcreektrails.com Mountainside Lodge Lazy Bear Lodge - lazy-bear-lodge.com Bed & Breakfasat Mast Farm Inn - themastfarminn.com 877-687-4333 Mast General Store - mastgeneralstore.com Mountainside Lodge B&B - mountainsidelodgebb.com Over Yonder - overyondernc.com Rivercross Made in USA - rivercrossmadeinusa.com Taylor House Inn - taylorhouseinn.com Valle Crucis Bakery & Cafe - sites.google.com/site/vallecrucisbakerycafe Valle Crucis Bed & Breakfast - vallecrucisbandb.com Valle Crucis Log Cabin Rentals & Sales - logcabinrentals.com
Valle Crucis Bed & Breakfast & Valle Crucis Mercantile 828-963-2525
Lazy Bear Lodge Bed & Breakfast 828-963-9201
2015-16
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SNOW TUBING ACROSS THE HIGH COUNTRY Glide down the slopes with the greatest of ease
30 lanes for visitors to chose from and have lifts to return the tubers to the top to ride again. The lanes range in length from 400 to 1,000 feet. For availability and ticket information, visit its website at https://hawksnesttubing.com/.
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now tubing can be a great activity for people new to snow sports. There is no training needed, unlike with snowboarding or skiing, so all ages and skill levels can glide down the side of the mountain fast and with fun. The snow-tubing venues in the High Country operate day and night and offer conveyor-belt style lifts to take tubers to their launch point. Children must be accompanied by adult supervision and parents must fill out waivers. Visit each venue’s website for rules and pricing information.
JONAS RIDGE SNOW TUBING Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing offers six lanes of snow tubing ranging from slow to steep and fast for those tubers seeking a bit more of a rush. Jonas Ridge’s No. 1 goal, according
OUR TOWNS FROM PAGE 13 The town has one traffic light, and several businesses line the street. Lansing’s first post office was established in 1882 and served a rural community, made up of a village and outlying farms until the railroad made its appearance. The economy and population began to take off by 1914, as the Norfolk and Western Railroad, better known as the Virginia Creeper, came to town. A big commodity for area residents was iron ore mined from the mountains. The railroad served as an avenue to transport the ore to markets in Richmond, Va., and Pittsburgh, Pa. During the course of its history, Lansing had a cheese plant, clothing store, coffin shop, doctor’s office, bank and a restaurant. The cheese plant allowed area farmers to bring their goods to sell instead of having to travel into West Jefferson.
SUGAR MOUNTAIN
Hawksnest Tubing, located at 2058 Skyland Drive in Seven Devils, boasts the title of the largest snow tubing park on the East Coast, according to their website. Hawksnest Tubing offers more than
Sugar Mountain Resort, 1009 Sugar Mountain Dr., in Sugar Mountain, may be better known for its skiing and snowboarding, but it also offers 700-foot-long tubing lanes for visitors to enjoy and conveyor-belt style lifts to return them to the start of the ride to provide a great winter experience to visitors. Children younger than 3 are not permitted to tube and children 6 and younger must share a tube with an adult. It is recommended that visitors wear warm snow clothes and durable shoes. For information on slope conditions and tickets, visit Sugar Mountain Resort’s website at www.skisugar. com/tubing/.
British Parliament and, at one time, lord mayor of London. The first man to settle in Wilkes County was Christopher Gist, who settled in the Yadkin Valley in 1750. Daniel Boone also made his home in Wilkes for many years. Col. Benjamin Cleveland and other Revolutionary War heroes also lived in Wilkes. It was the “mountain men” of Wilkes who arrived at the Battle of Kings Mountain and, in doing so, helped turn the tide of the Revolutionary War, according to the Wilkes County Historical Association. Also of historical note, Wilkes was once known as the “Moonshine Capital of the World” and was a leading producer of illegal homemade liquor. The county also claims to be the birthplace of NASCAR, as many would make a living delivering, or running, moonshine, thus producing some racing legends. One such driver of note is Junior Johnson, and Benny Parsons also had
his start in Wilkes before gaining notoriety on the circuit. The county is also the site of the North Wilkesboro Speedway, built in 1946. It was among the first tracks recognized by NASCAR during its inaugural year in 1949. The short track closed in 1996, but briefly reopened for special events. Today, Wilkes draws those who love the outdoors, with such sites as the W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir, and those who love music, with such festivals as the world-renowned MerleFest held on the campus of Wilkes Community College each April. MerleFest has been the stage for artists including Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, The Avett Brothers and the founder of the festival, the late Doc Watson. Today, Wilkes has a projected population of 69,340, according to the U.S. Census. Its county seat is Wilkesboro, and its largest town is North Wilkesboro. Visit http://wilkescounty.net/.
PHOTO SUBMITTED Hawksnest is open through the winter with snow-tubing experiences at its Seven Devils location.
to its website, is safety, and as such it has guides at the top and bottom of the slope and show tubers an instructional video before launch. This snow-tubing adventure venue is located at 9472 NC Highway 181 in Newland. Visit its website for pricing and hours of operation at www.jonasridg-
The town was chartered and incorporated in 1928. Lansing faced two devastating fires in the 1930s and 1940s and faced Hurricane Hugo in 1989. Despite these setbacks, Lansing continued to flourish and expand. The Works Progress Administration built the Lansing High School in 1941, using local granite stone. The school still stands today. The scenic Virginia Creeper biking trail is available to visitors, as is the town’s park. For more information about Lansing, visit www.explorelansingnc. com.
WILKES COUNTY Wilkes County was founded in 1777, effective Feb. 12, 1778, and its history dates from pre-Revolutionary War times. It was named in honor of John Wilkes, who was a member of the
esnowtube.com/.
HAWKSNEST
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THE HIGH COUNTRY:
NORTH CAROLINA’S SNOWBOARDING CAPITAL
Burton’s Learn to Ride Center at App Ski offers concentrated learning with a four-to-one student-to-instructor ratio. The French-Swiss Ski College has been teaching skiers and snowboarders how to ride for decades. Three terrain parks dare seasoned snowboarders with rails and jumps. Once the season is under way, slopes are open all day from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
On the rise and a sport of choice
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now sports bring visitors from all over North Carolina and beyond to the High Country, which is the location of three of the largest ski resorts in the state: Appalachian Ski Mountain, Sugar Mountain Resort and Beech Mountain Resort. While skiing is still a winter sport staple, snowboarding is on the rise and is often the sport of choice for Appalachian State University students, local snow prodigies and visitors alike. With a reputation for being a difficult sport, many are wary to give the board a try. However, you shouldn’t be scared off by the stigma of snowboarding. Each ski mountain offers some level of instruction taught by seasoned snowboarders and skiers. When it comes to snowboarding, it’s definitely worth the extra money to buy lessons (unless you want to be heckled by the more experienced riders as they zoom past you). The ski mountains also give you the option to rent equipment, as well as the ski shops off the mountain, with locations at the town of Beech Mountain, Banner Elk and Boone. If you like the sport enough, you can buy a board that’s uniquely you. It’s also smart to buy or rent safety equipment while on the slopes. Although the ski mountains don’t require helmets, they come highly recommended, especially for children and first-timers. Traveling at high speeds down mounds of snow can definitely lead to some bumps and bruises — especially if the snow is packed and not soft and fresh. Oftentimes, your experience with snowboarding could depend on the conditions of the slope. The “powder,” as it’s called, is often best when it has just freshly snowed, or if it’s been consistently cold enough to generate manmade snow. It’s usually hardest to snowboard on ice, which can be produced when it’s warm during the day and when the top layer of the snow melts and then freezes again later in the night.
Beech Mountain Resort 1007 Beech Mtn Parkway Beech Mountain (828) 387-2011 www.beechmountainresort.com
PHOTO BY ERIKA GIOVANETTI Eleven-year-old Elizabeth Mitsonis tears up the slopes at Sugar Mountain Resort.
There are also some common courtesies snowboarders should take while on the mountain. Always make sure to look where you’re going, not only to keep your balance, but also to make sure that you’re not about to run into other boarders and skiers. It’s also nice to share the chairlift with other single riders on a busy night to help the line go by faster. While it’s not required, it is greatly appreciated. If you’re a beginner and haven’t practiced getting off the lifts much, however, it might be best to ride alone as to avoid tripping up other boarders when exiting the lift. Chairlifts can seem scary to beginners, and rightly so. Even your most experienced rider isn’t immune to falling while attempting to exit the chairlift. When it comes to riding the chairlift, practice makes perfect. Sugar Mountain’s new chairlift, which will debut this season, makes it easier for riders and skiers to exit the lift. Perhaps the most important advice for snowboarders is to have fun, and don’t be afraid to fall. Bring some encouraging friends and tackle the big-
ger slopes, one level at a time. When you’re tired or feeling cold, take a break at the ski mountain’s lodges, sit by the fire and give your body some time to recover. Remember that even though it’s a sport, snowboarding is meant to be a fun activity. As mentioned before, the High Country has three major ski areas.
Appalachian Ski Mountain 940 Ski Mountain Road Blowing Rock (828) 295-7828 www.appskimtn.com Appalachian Ski Mountain offers 12 slopes for boarders of all experience levels to enjoy. Three runs are considered easiest, six more difficult and three more most difficult. App Ski Mountain’s longest slope, Orchard Run, presents a half mile of twists and turns, falling into the “more difficult” classification. Appaltizer is a great place for beginners to learn, while Hard Core is a challenge for even experienced snowboarders.
Boasting 13 trails, two freestyle terrain parks and the fastest ski lifts in the Southeast, Beech Mountain Resort is another great option for snowboarders in the High Country. At 5,506 feet, Beech Mountain is the highest place to snowboard in the area. At the top of the mountain is “5506’,” a skybar offering light fare. Beech Mountain Resort also has its own brewery, offering fresh-brewed ales year-round. Beech Mountain Resort offers instruction through Burton’s Learn to Ride program. Beech Mountain Resort is open at 9 a.m. and closes at 9 p.m. on weekdays and 10 p.m. on weekends and holidays.
Sugar Mountain Resort 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive Sugar Mountain (828) 898-4521 www.skisugar.com Reaching heights of 5,300 feet at the summit, Sugar Mountain is the only resort in the area with a doubleblack diamond run, Whoopdedoo. Beginners need not worry, however, as 86 percent of the trails are considered beginner or intermediate. With seven lifts to service 21 trails, including a terrain park, Sugar Mountain Resort is the largest ski park in the area. The longest trail is one and a half miles long. Group and private lessons are available to those eager to learn or refine their snowboarding skills. Sugar Mountain Resort is open at 9 a.m. and offers night boarding on 15 of its trails.
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SKIING SOUTHERN STYLE
f you are visiting the High Country in the midst of a high elevation Appalachian winter, chances are, you are here to ski. With three expertly appointed ski resorts, each with around 50 years of dedicated service to the High Country, skiers of all skill levels flock to this area each winter, whether it be for the weekend or for the season. Despite its Southern latitude, the High Country is well equipped to serve skiers. The area, and its slopes, sit in the middle of the Blue Ridge range of the Appalachians, which features the East Coast’s highest peaks. Having a good time is what skiing is all about, whether it be racing down a black diamond run or playing on the bunny slopes. If you’re prepared and informed before you go, nothing stands between you and a day of snowsport fun. Beginners will find equal welcome, as will those more experienced skiers at the High Country’s slopes. Beech, Sugar and App Ski Mountain all have expertly staffed ski schools that will have the whole family flying down the slopes in no time. Because the High Country’s weather can often change at the drop of a hat, it is vital that those looking to ski come prepared. A mild day at 2,500 feet can often turn into a blizzard just 1,000 feet higher. Hats, scarves, goggles, gloves, a change of clothes and a good pair of socks are just a few of the essentials. The best tactic for winter dress in the High Country is layering. Having a solid, skin-tight base layer topped with wool or cotton and finished off with a waterproof outer shell is the best way to stay warm on the slopes. Layering also gives you the option to shed layers as you get warmer from
physical exertion. While not a legal requirement, one should consider wearing a helmet. Skiing is fun, but like any sport, there are some inherent risks. Lower the possibility of injury, or even tragedy, by wearing a helmet. In addition to being a life-saving accessory, it is also a warm one. For physical and mental preparedness, stay hydrated. When you are cold, it can be easy to forget that you are sweating when you ski. Under all those layers you are losing precious hydration. Stay physically strong and mentally sharp by drinking plenty of fluids and noshing on a snack or two throughout the day. It’s also smart to check slope and weather conditions before embarking on your ski adventure. The official website of the North Carolina Ski Areas Association is www.goskinc. com, which contains all the current information for all area ski slopes, including snow reports, which are updated in live time. Visit one or all of these resorts in our area:
PHOTO SUBMITTED The mountains of North Carolina boast some of the best skiing in the region and welcome thousands of tourists to the High Country each year to test the slopes.
Sugar Mountain Resort 1009 Sugar Mountain Drive Sugar Mountain (828) 898-4521 www.skisugar.com
Beech Mountain Resort
Celebrating 33Years
1007 Beech Mtn Parkway Beech Mountain (828) 387-2011 www.beechmountainresort.com
Appalachian Ski Mountain 940 Ski Mountain Road Blowing Rock (828) 295-7828 www.appskimtn.com
Winter Group & “Small Works Exhibition” November 27 - April 30 Holiday Open House November 27th and 28th, 10am-5pm Located 10 Miles South of Boone on Highway 105 in Grandfather Community 828-963-4288 | www.carltongallery.com | carltongallery@carltongallery.com
PHOTO SUBMITTED Wearing a helmet is one idea to consider, but not a legal requirement.
PAINTINGS • CLAY • GLASS • WOOD • FIBER ART • JEWELRY
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LUNCH: M-F 11-3, Sun 11:30-3 DINNER: Everyday 5-10 PM Saturday 5-10PM only 173 Howard Street Boone, NC 828.268.0434 828.268.0439 fax
glassware furniture primitives 199 howard st • 828-262-1957 open 7 days a week
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SNOWSHOEING IN THE HIGH COUNTRY
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nowshoeing is making fresh tracks in the High Country. Although it is not yet as popular as other winter pastimes such as snowboarding or skiing, the cross-country style excursion is beginning to gain a foothold with outdoor enthusiasts. Snowshoeing offers trekkers the ability to enjoy the High Country’s marvels the way it was intended to; by slowing down and taking in the natural beauty with deliberate introspection. According to Snowshoe’s Magazine’s “Guide to Snowshoeing,” there is no better way to begin snowshoeing other than “just going and doing it.” Snowshoeing hotspots in Watauga County include trails on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the trails at Moses Cone Manor in Blowing Rock and almost any wooded area with trails. Snowshoeing is also accumulating a following on Beech Mountain, which is located in a snug corner of the county’s southern section most easily accessible by N.C. 105 before travelling through Banner Elk. Snowshoes can be rented from the Beech Mountain Parks and Recreation Department. There are currently 30 miles of town maintained trails ready for tourists and natives alike, according to www.beechmtn.com. Snowshoes can be rented by the hour, half day or full day. Visitors have the option of booking a guided snowshoe excursion with a member of the recreation department staff, as well, according to the website. The level of difficulty ranges from easy to moderate and strenuous. Experienced snowshoers are invited to try Emerald Outback trails at the top of the mountain, according to the website. Rentals rates for snowshoes are $5 an hour, $15 for a half day and $25 for the full day. Guided excursions range from $30 to $70, depending on the length and number of people. For more information, call (828) 387-3003 or visit www.beechrecreation.org.
WINE & BEER
GIFT BASKETS
WARE
Regardless of how you find your way down a mountain or through the woods this winter, check out the numerous outfitters in the area to make your chilly runs an enjoyable and memorable one. Farmers Hardware Skishop at 140 S. Depot St., in downtown Boone has everything you need to hit the slopes this winter with a huge selection of gear, including The North Face products. For more infor-
mation, call (828) 264-4565. Recess Snow and Skate has you covered regardless of the season with top of the line selections in skateboard and snowboards. They are located at 1158 N.C. 105. For more information call (828) 355-9013.
WEDDING
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PHOTO SUBMITTED Snowshoeing hotspots in Watauga County include trails on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the trails at Moses Cone Manor in Blowing Rock and almost any wooded area with trails.
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IT’S THE
Where to go, what to do NEWSPAPER
PHOTO SUBMITTED The caverns remain at a stable 52 degrees throughout the year, allowing for a great escape from the cold weather of the winter months in the High Country.
CAVING: ADVENTURE INTO THE EARTH
U
p for some adventure this winter? Caving is a lot like hiking in many caves in the High Country, only visitors are among the stalactites and stalagmites of the underground world. Above, the Earth’s surface temperatures may be getting a bit frigid, but just below, in the caves and caverns of the High Country, cavers can escape from the blustery winds and dropping temperatures in the surprisingly mild temperatures of the caves.
CAVES AND CAVERNS LINVILLE CAVERNS Linville Caverns, located off U.S. 221 North, offers a unique experience for people of all ages and skill sets. This cavern is easily navigable and is headed by tour guide that will walk you through the expansive and tight spaces that the cavern holds. Visitors will surely be amazed by the underground trout swimming through a stream accessible
from a small opening in the cave. Linville Caverns has been offering tours to visitors since 1937 and now has upgraded pathways and lighting to ensure the safety of those visiting. Visit its website for more information at www.linvillecaverns. com/.
WAHOO’S ADVENTURES Caving trips with Wahoo’s Adventures start in Boone and travel to Johnson City, Tenn., to enter the Earth through their cave excursions. According to their website, the Wahoo’s Adventures cave is the largest in Tennessee and has been privately owned since the Civil War. Expert guides lead expeditions through the underground cave, while teaching cavers about the stalactite and stalagmite formations throughout. Wahoo’s main office is located at 3385 South U.S. 321 in Boone. For more information and maps to locations, visit their website at http://wahoosadventures.com/
wahoos/cave-exploration.php.
WORLEY’S CAVE Worley’s Cave excursions are headed up by River and Earth Adventures Inc. with no sidewalks or electricity for an authentic caving experience. This excursion is not for visitors looking for an easy or quick caving experience, as excursion cavers will crawl through tunnels and through tight spaces into open cavernous areas. The experience can be anywhere from two to four hours. River and Earth Adventures’ website describes the physical fitness needed for these expeditions as being similar to pulling yourself onto a kitchen counter. Visitors should also wear footwear that can withstand shallow water. The excursions begin at 187 Patterson Lane in Elizabethton, Tenn. For more information about pricing and preparing for your adventure, visit their website at www.raftcavehike.com/caving/.
LIVE MUSIC FREE EVENTS KIDS' ACTIVITIES OUTDOOR EXCURSIONS ARTS & CULTURE AND MORE!
Available everywhere!
Boone’s Winter Farmers Market Available will be storage produce crops (apples, potatoes, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, winter squash, etc.) and seasonally green crops. Seasonal plants, eggs, meats, salsa, jams, jellies, butters, baked items and much more. December through April the first and third Saturdays from 9am-noon indoors at the Agricultural Conference Center at 252 Poplar Grove Road Boone, NC. For more information visit pharmn.org or boonewfm@gmail.com
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NEED HELP REELING IN THE BIG ONE?
PHOTO SUBMITTED Trout is the typical game that anglers will be vying for this time of year, and the High Country watershed contains several species of trout.
WINTER PUTS INTERESTING SPIN ON FISHING O
ne of the top hobbies of High Country residents and visitors alike is fishing, and even though the pastime is more common in the spring and summer, enthusiasts know that fishing in the winter can be just as rewarding. But fishing in the winter is definitely different. The winter water means that fish move more slowly than in warmer months. To compensate, anglers will need to give a slower presentation. Also, because fish eat less in cold months, area residents advise cold water anglers to use smaller bait, such as maggots or mealworms, instead of full-size night crawlers. Another practical tip: visitors from warmer areas may not be aware of how cold High Country winters can get. It’s always smart to dress in warm attire, especially for anglers who plan to spend several hours outside. Warm boots and headwear can go a long way, and gloves and hand
warmers can be a game changer for fishermen spending hours outside. And, of course, be careful not to slip and fall in. Trout is the typical game that anglers will be vying for this time of year, and the High Country watershed contains several species of trout. The New River in particular is more well known for smallmouth bass and redeye bass. Fishermen looking for a challenge might try searching for the rare muskie, a large, freshwater fish found across North America. Muskellunge (also called muskies) are not native to the High Country; instead, they have been stocked in the New River since the 1970s. Due to their size, muskies often stay in deeper water. If fishermen want to bag one of these trophy fish, they will need to look in deep pools along the river and lakes. Anglers looking to land this freshwater monster will need to use heavy tackle and big lures, as muskie can
shred lighter equipment. The other key to land a muskie is to fish in the right spot; anglers will need to fish in deeper waters on the North Carolina/ Virginia border. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission has information on where to fish posted at www. ncwildlife.org/fishing.aspx. Anglers will also need to read up on rules and regulations for trout streams. These regulations vary from stream to stream. Before casting your line in the High Country, be sure to obtain a fishing license from any of the local fishing outfitters. A 10-day license to fish in the High Country is $5 for North Carolina residents and $10 for out-of-state visitors. An annual fishing license is $15 for North Carolina residents and $30 for out-of-state visitors. Remember the laws, stay warm and follow the advice of local anglers and you’re sure to land a trophy fish in no time.
Everybody needs a little help once in a while. Whether it’s finding new equipment, getting some advice or getting a fishing license, the following outfitters can assist you:
Appalachian Angler 174 Old Shull’s Mill Road Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 963-5050 www.appangler.com
Elk Creek Outfitters 1560 N.C. 105 Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-6497 www.ecoflyfishing.com
Foscoe Fishing Co. & Outfitters 8857 NC-105 Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 963-6556 www.foscoefishing.com
Grandfather Trout Farm 10767 NC-105 Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 963-5098 www.grandfathertroutfarm.com
Rick’s Smallmouth Adventures 1757 Pleasant Home Road Sparta, N.C. 28675 (336) 372-8321 www.fighthenew.com
RiverGirl Fishing Co. 4041 Todd Railroad Grade Road Todd, N.C. 28684 (336) 877-3099 www.rivergirlfishingco.com
Watauga River Anglers 5712 N.C. 105 South Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 963-5463 www.wataugariveranglers.com
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WINTER TIMES
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2015-16
PHOTO BY ROB MOORE When old man winter visits during the winter months, Grandfather puts on a white cap.
GRANDFATHER AND OLD MAN WINTER
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iscussion of tourist destinations in the High Country must inevitably begin and end with Grandfather
Mountain. The old man’s paternal peaks dominate the hearts of area residents and visitors, just as much as they command the skyline. While the mountain is beautiful — and its park quite busy — in the fall when its angular, rugged face is ablaze with the full breadth of the autumnal palette, visitors will be no less astounded by what the park has to offer a winter guest. “Winter is a special time at Grandfather Mountain,” said Frank Ruggiero, director of marketing and communications for Grandfather Mountain State Park. “It’s a quieter time of year, when guests can escape the crowds of summer and fall. They often feel like they have the whole mountain to themselves.” Grandfather Mountain is open to the public year-round and like the stalwart wildlife that inhabits it, the staff is undaunted by the cold. Barring prohibitive weather — which at more than mile above sea level, happens — every part of the park is open to guests. For a place that already provides some of the most incredible vistas east of the Rockies (and lots of folks would put Grandfather up against them any day), winter views from the mountain are some of the choicest all year. “Guests should bring their cameras,”
Ruggiero said. “The winter viewscape can be nothing short of stunning.” While the park is absolutely accessible, there are certain things that potential visitors should take into consideration before they ascend Grandfather in the winter months. For instance, after a heavy snow, the park’s road system must be cleared before the gates are opened, this process may delay opening. A phone call ahead can make sure you and your family get the best experience without a wait. Wardrobe is also an important preparation for a mountain visit. “Guests should dress for success, wherein they successfully keep warm,” Ruggiero said. “Grandfather Mountain makes its own weather, and temperatures are often considerably lower on the mountain than off. Even if it might seem pleasant some days, the weather can quickly change, so it’s best to be prepared.” Grandfather Mountain offers a variety of altered pricing structures through the winter months for guests to take advantage of. From November 2015 through April 2016, Grandfather Mountain is offering its Secret Season pass, which allows pass holders unlimited access to the mountain for $32 (plus tax) for adults — less than the price of two regular tickets. A child’s Secret Season pass (ages 4 to 12) is $18 plus tax. A group pass, good for up to six people traveling in the same vehicle, sells for $90 plus tax and can pay for itself on the first visit.
Grandfather Mountain also offers two simple ways to save on park admission during the holiday season. As a gesture of support for local tree farmers, anyone who arrives at the mountain with a tree atop their vehicle or a receipt from a local tree farm will receive $2 off each adult admission and $1 off each child admission. December also marks the return of Dollar Days for local residents. From Dec. 1 to 31, anyone who lives or works in Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Mitchell, Watauga or Wilkes counties will be admitted to the mountain for $3 per person, with proof of local employment or residency. In lieu of cash, Grandfather Mountain also will accept three cans of food from local residents for distribution to local food pantries. Christmas tree discounts may not be combined with Dollar Days discounts. As well as the views and landscape, the park hosts a variety of events for winter visitors, such as the annual Christmas Bird Count on Dec. 18. “The holiday season often seems to fly by, literally so at Grandfather Mountain,” Ruggiero said. “During our annual Christmas Bird Count, volunteers are invited to take note of all birds spotted within a seven-mile radius of the mountain’s Calloway Peak.” That radius includes Linville, Sugar Mountain, Valle Crucis and the Blue Ridge Parkway toward Blowing Rock. Volunteers will be assigned routes based on their skills and abilities, and those interested are encouraged
to contact Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation executive director Jesse Pope for more information. “The more eyes, the better,” Pope said. “You don’t typically see a lot of birds, but the ones you see are amazing.” Some rarities include red crossbills, saw-whet owls, golden eagles, pine siskins, purple finches and more. Anyone who has ever wondered about the quintessential Christmas tree, the Fraser fir, can join staff naturalists for a “Nature on the Mountain” program throughout the holiday season. Naturalists will discuss the Fraser fir and the red spruce, two high-elevation trees that create a unique ecosystem atop the highest peaks, as well as other plants and animals that inhabit the mountain. The 20-minute program will be held at 1 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 28 to Jan. 17, in the second floor of the Top Shop Visitor Center (location subject to change due to weather). If weather permits, it may include a brief walk outdoors to observe the natural world up close. Staff at Grandfather Mountain slyly refer to winter at the park as the “secret season,” but, now that the secret is out, any High Country visitor would be remiss to skip a visit to the mountain. For more information on Grandfather Mountain, call (828) 7334337 or visit www.grandfather.com.
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DRIVING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND
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agnificent Blue Ridge Parkway scenery transition from gorgeous greenery to white purity. As pristine snowflakes cover the landscape of the High Country, many of the popular stops along the Blue Ridge Parkway still offer some of the most amazing views. Crisp, clean mountain air, immensely vast skyline and blankets of white snow covering the landscape welcome motorists to the winter version of the Blue Ridge Parkway. As the roadway passes through Avery, Ashe and Watauga counties, most of the campsites and visitor centers are closed. But that shouldn’t stop you from a leisurely drive for some of the most beautiful scenery found throughout Appalachia. The roads at times can become a bit overrun with snow and ice and will close down when extremely dangerous driving conditions arise, but on the right day, the ride is just fine. If you are so inclined, take a stroll on one of the parkway’s several hiking trails. Make sure to wear adequate layers of clothes for warmth, bring healthy snacks for energy and a bottle of water to maintain hydration. For the more frisky adventurers, trails specifically for cross-country skiing can be located at milepost 295 at Moses Cone Park on the Bass Lake Trail or the Tanawha Trail at milepost 297 at Grandfather Mountain, to name a few. With so many overlooks and stops along the parkway, to not bring a camera could be considered a major travesty. Cascade Falls at Benge Gap at milepost 268 is a not-to-be-missed photo opportunity on the right day. Another picturesque stop along the parkway is Price Park at milepost 295, just outside of Boone. A popular indoor winter attraction is the Museum of North Carolina Minerals in Spruce Pine at milepost 331. The museum offers interactive exhibits about regional gems and minerals seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hours are subject to change. For more information, call (828) 7652761. For more information about the Blue Ridge Parkway, call (828) 2980398 or 800-PARK-WATCH or visit www.nps.gov/blri or www.blueridgeparkway.org.
Mileposts of Interest 248.1: N.C. 18 Crossover 2 miles west of Laurel Springs. 24 miles east to North Wilkesboro. 261: N.C. 16 Crossover. West 12 miles to Jefferson, 14 miles to West Jefferson, 26 miles to Grassey Creek. East 20 miles to North Wilkesboro. 268: Benge Gap. 272: E.B. Jeffress Park. Picnic area, Comfort station, trail to Cascades. 276.4: Deep Gap. U.S. 421 Crossover. West 11 miles to Boone. East 26 miles to North Wilkesboro. 291.9: U.S. 221/321 Crossover. 7 miles north to Boone, 2 miles south to Blowing Rock. 292.7: Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, 3,600 acres. Many miles of horse and carriage trails, hiking, fishing. 294: Historic Flat Top Manor House; Parkway Craft Center; comfort station; visitor information, publications. 295: Julian Price Memorial Park. 4,344 acres. Campground, picnic area, lake, boating, fishing, trails. Altitude 3,400. Reservations for camping www.recreation.gov. 304.4: Linn Cove Viaduct Information Center. Visitor information, comfort station, publications. Trail access viaduct. Altitude 4,000 feet. 305.2: Junction Parkway and U.S. 221. 3 miles west to Linville. 308.2: Flat Rock parking area. Self-guiding nature trail to superb view of Linville Valley and Grandfather Mountain. 312: N.C. 181 Crossover, 32 miles southeast to Morganton, 2 miles north to Pineola. 316.3: Linville Falls. Visitor Center. Campground and picnic area. Trail to overlooks of falls and gorge. For camping reservations, visit www.recreation.gov. 316.4: Linville River Parking Area. One of the parkway’s largest stone arch bridges. Three spans of 80 feet each. Fish in Linville River. Picnic area. Comfort Station. Altitude 3,250 feet. Take Spur Road to Linville Falls, campground and visitor center. 317.4: South 1 mile to Linville Falls community. 24 miles to Marion. 320.7: Chestoa View offers an unusually fine view from one of the many vertical cliffs on Humpback Mountain. 331: N.C. 226 Crossover. 6 miles north to Spruce Pine. 14 miles south to Marion. 331: Museum of North Carolina Minerals. Junction of parkway and NC. 226. Features minerals found in North Carolina and regional geology. County chamber of commerce office. Restrooms. Open daily year-round. 331: Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail — commemorates the campaign leading up to the American victory at Kings Mountain in 1780. Route crosses the Blue Ridge Parkway at Gillespie Gap, near the Mineral Museum. Administered by the National Park Service, www.nps.gov/ovvi. 334: N.C. 226A Crossover to Little Switzerland. 339.5: Crabtree Falls. 250 acres. Hiking, picnic area, camping, comfort station, drinking water. 40 minute walk to Crabtree Falls.
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WINTER TIMES
2015-16
SLOPE FULL OF SNOW, SPOONFUL OF SUGAR
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inter outdoor enthusiasts need not travel to the Alps. These days, they don’t even need to travel to the Rockies. Sugar Mountain Resort is pushing the envelope of snowsport innovation right here in the Appalachians and, for skiers and snowboarders alike, this means a whole new level of entertainment on the mountain. While Sugar Mountain Resort has long been highly lauded in the High Country — and indeed, the South as a whole — owners Kim and Gunther Jochl haven’t used this opportunity to rest on their laurels. They are tenacious about staying on top of technological advances in their field. For instance, this season the resort has added three new fully automated SMI snow machines. The snowmaking system has been additionally reinforced by the installation of a variable speed, fully automated water pump to service the machines. “Snow is critical,” Jochl said. “Its quality is the basis of what Sugar Mountain Resort sells. We are constantly adding and updating to the snowmaking infrastructure, whether it be automated snow machines, larger pipes, additional pumps or snow grooming machines. Investment in innovation keeps us on the cutting edge of technology.” In addition to the new snowmakers, and perhaps the most exciting addition to the mountain since its inception, is the brand new “Summit Express” ski lift. The Summit Express, which held its grand opening Nov. 14, is expected to totally revolutionize the way Sugar’s guests are ferried up the slopes. A high-speed, luxury lift, Summit Express looks like something out of a James Bond film. It is slick, modern and can transport as many as 2,518 people per hour to the top of mountain. The expeditious new lift can make the almost one-mile run to the summit of Sugar in just five minutes, cutting the previous lift speed in half. The lift is richly appointed, comfortable and almost guaranteed to give riders
PHOTO COURTESY OF HEATHER JOCHL The new Summit Express lift at Sugar Mountain Resort is one of many advancements the mountain continues to make to enhance the visitor’s experience at Sugar Mountain.
PHOTO COURTESY SUGAR MOUNTAIN RESORT Skiers flock from across the U.S. to ski the slopes of Sugar Mountain Resort, where challenges and fun await for any skill level.
one of the best lift experiences in the Southeast. “Everything is exciting about the Summit Express,” Jochl said. “The technology, the comfort, the speed, the look, the efficiency, the engineering and, most importantly, the feel the customer will experience every time they ride it.” In addition to the flagship Summit Express, Sugar has also shortened the old No. 2 lift and renamed it the “Little Grey Lift.” This new, shorter lift will ferry passengers to the top of the Easy Street extension slope.
The resort has also added a new lift that will service its newest slope, Gunther’s Way. While Sugar Mountain Resort is very well equipped to manufacture its own snow, historically, they also get a good deal of help from Mother Nature. The mountain’s 5,236 foot elevation means that it can receive as much as 130 inches of fresh powder a year. This combined assault of artificial and organic snow gives Sugar an impressive total of more than 125 skiable acres, and gives potential visitors a very good chance that they will find just
the right run for them. Sugar Mountain Resort has something for every level of ability and experience. More seasoned snowsport veterans might find the challenge they are looking for on the mountain’s newest slope, Gunther’s Way. Named for resort owner, Gunther Jochl, the slope is situated on 9 acres of land, is 150 feet wide, 2,900 feet long and offers an impressive elevation change of 700 feet. For those looking for a more docile experience, Sugar also has slopes that are attuned for beginners. Oma’s Meadow is a wide and slow slope that is more gentle and approachable than the more intense Gunther’s Way. Also, beginners might enjoy the aptly named “Easy Street,” an entry level slope served by its own lift and separated from the more advanced runs. For those new to the sport, Sugar offers a ski school staffed with experts ready to pass on their experience. For those who have long since hung up their floats and dived into the deep end, Sugar has a wide range of expert runs, as well, with such fitting names as Whoopdeedoo, Boulder Dash and Tom Terrific. Sugar’s myriad winter entertainment offerings go far beyond skiing and snowboarding. The resort also offers a huge, 10,000-square-foot refrigerated ice skating rink, as well as a 700-foot tubing park, outfitted with its own snowmaking machines. One could occupy themselves for hours listing Sugar Mountain’s various technical advancements and offerings, but perhaps what truly sets them apart is their passion for what they do. In a recent news release detailing new updates to the park, Sugar mentioned that it has even streamlined its cafeteria lines to better serve guests. That is a testament to their dedication to customer service, from the time a visitor enters the gate to the time they leave, the folks at Sugar Mountain Resort are making sure they have the best possible experience. For more information, call (800) SUGARMT, (828) 898-4521 or visit www.skisugar.com.
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2015-16
HAWKSNEST SNOW TUBING OFFERS HIGH ADVENTURE
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et’s face it, folks: Some of us just aren’t cut out for skiing and snowboarding. For the balance-challenged among us, snow tubing and ziplining are no skills-required, adrenaline-packed activities. If you are looking for a group or family activity, check out Hawksnest Snow Tubing. Located atop the town of Seven Devils, Hawksnest is the largest local snow tubing park on the East Coast. The 30-lane tubing park offers lanes from 400- to 1,000-feet long. Two conveyer lifts take riders back to the top. Even when Mother Nature doesn’t provide, the resort makes its own snow and provides lighting on all lanes. Children must be at least 3 years old to snow tube at Hawksnest and anyone younger than age 18 must have a parent or guardian fill out a liability form. Each session lasts approximately one hour and 45 minutes. For the 2015-16 season, a single snow-tubing session costs $27 Monday through Friday and $33 on Saturday and Sunday. Monday through Thursday, the park offers a special rate of $32 per person for two sessions. Sessions begin at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. almost every day. The last session on Sundays is 2 p.m. and there is a 6 p.m. session offered on Fridays and Saturdays. Near the holidays, snow tubing is $33 for one session. Holidays are considered to be Nov. 27, Dec. 20 to Jan. 1, Jan. 17 and 18 and Feb. 14 and 15. Snow tubing will be available on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays up until Dec. 11, at which point the slopes will remain open seven days a week. For the especially daring, Hawksnest will continue to offer zipline tours through the winter. “Zippers” will enjoy speeding through treetops and over valleys for incredible views and sometimes catching glimpses of local wildlife from above. Hawksnest offers the longest zipline tour on the East Coast, featuring 20
PHOTO COURTESY OF HAWKSNEST With 30 lanes for snow tubing and 18 cables for zip lining, there is always something new to try at Hawksnest.
cables. The “Hawk Tour” features 11 cables with two swinging bridges and is $80 per person. This tour is 1.5 miles of cable riding, with two cables more than 1,500 feet and heights more than 150 feet. Travel through the trees, over lakes and creeks with speeds up to 35 mph. Children must be at least 5 years old to ride. Riders cannot be more than 250 pounds or have a waist larger than 40 inches. During the winter months, Hawksnest offers an abbreviated ver-
sion of the “Hawk Tour” called the “Snowbird Tour.” These tours encompass the first four cables on the “Hawk Tour” and generally last 45 minutes. The cost is $45 per person and the age, weight requirements are the same. The “Eagle Tour” features nine cables, a swing bridge and is $90 per person. This tour has almost 3 miles of cable riding. Two cables ride more than 2,000 feet, three more than 1,200 feet at heights of more than 200 feet and speeds up to 50 miles per hour. Children must be at least 8 years
old. Riders cannot be more than 220 pounds or less than 80 pounds or have a waist larger than 40 inches. Tours begin at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Early morning tours are available on request and availability. Reservations are required and can be made via the Hawksnest website by visiting www.hawksnesttubing.com. Tours take about one and a half to two hours to complete. For more information, visit Hawksnest at 2058 Skyland Dr. in Seven Devils, visit www.hawksnesttubing.com or call (800) 822-4295.
WINTER TIMES
2015-16
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YOUR FIRST RESORT for FAMILY FUN
RENOWNED SKI INSTRUCTION
FLEX TICKET
TOP-RANKED TERRAIN PARKS
North Carolina’s only Flex Ticket. Your session starts when you do! Up to 8 consecutive hours.
3 terrain parks featuring over 70 rails, boxes and tabletops, over a dozen competitions and events, and a dedicated crew hand-grooming features throughout the day.
MIDNIGHT BLAST WEEKENDS
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Now all season long! Late Night Skiing 5:00pm - Midnight Friday and Saturday nights Nov. 20 - Mar. 19 Holidays: Dec. 26 - 31, Jan. 17, Feb. 14
November 25 - March 20 weather permitting. 3 sessions daily: Noon - 2:00pm, 2:30 - 4:30pm and 7:00 - 9:00pm
Visit AppSkiMtn.com for our schedule of fun events going on all season long.
Appalachian Ski Mtn is the place to learn to ski and snowboard. Having taught more than 1 million people, the French Swiss Ski College is the region’s leader in ski instruction.
Scheduled 2015-16 Season: November 20 - April 2 Blowing Rock, NC • www.appskimtn.com • 828.295.7828 • www.appterrainpark.com
WINTER TIMES
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2015-16
Blowing Rock 1
3
COMPLIMENTARY BREAKFAST MANAGER’S AFTERNOON RECEPTION WALKING DISTANCE TO DOWNTOWN BLOWING ROCK
2
BLOWING ROCK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
1 800 821 4908
WINTER ’15-’16 CALENDAR Nov 27 Nov 27-28 thru Jan 31
Christmas in the Park & Lighting of the Town (828) 295-5222 Chetola Horse & Carriage Rides, Santa, Cookie Decorating (828) 295-5535 Chetola’s Festival of Lights (828) 295-5500
Nov 28
Bolick Pottery Kiln Opening (828) 295-5099
Nov 28
Blowing Rock Christmas Parade at 11am (828) 295-5222
Nov 28
Mountain Home Music: A Celtic Christmas (828) 964-3392
Nov
28
Miracle on 34th Street Staged Radio Drama • Blowing Rock School Auditorium, 7pm (828) 414-1844
thru Dec 24
Choose & Cut Christmas Tree Season (828) 262-5826
Dec 3
Winter Exhibition Celebration Blowing Rock Art & History Museum (828) 295-9099
Dec 3-6 Dec 5 Dec 11
Mountain Home Music: An Appalachian Christmas (828) 964-3392 Holiday Stroll Downtown (828) 295-7851 Christmas in the High Country Variety Show • Blowing Rock School Auditorium (828) 414-1844
31
New Year's Eve Extravaganza Appalachian Ski Mountain (828) 295-7828
Jan
28-31
Winterfest (828) 295-7851
2
Blowing Rock Trout Derby (828) 295-5222
April
April 14-17
*Not valid with any other offer
www.thevillageinnsofblowingrock.com
Festival of Trees by Western Youth Network at Chetola Resort (828) 264-5174
Dec 18-20
Dec
Bring in this ad to receive 10% OFF your stay!*
Savor (A Celebration of Food & Wine)
(828) 295-7851
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PAGE 31
APPALACHIAN SKI MOUNTAIN
hether an experienced skier or snowboarder or someone strapping into bindings for the first time, Appalachian Ski Mountain has something for everyone. Now in its 54th season, the park features 12 slopes with difficulty ranging from beginner to black diamond. Three of the slopes are terrain park areas where skiers and snowboarders can catch air and rail jam to their heart’s content. The areas contain 70 features that change weekly, including jumps, boxes and rails to offer added variety and bigger challenge. Appalachian Ski Mountain has a lift capacity of more than 9,200 patrons per hour, accommodating even the largest of crowds on the slopes. The alpine-style lodge overlooks the slopes and offers amenities such as a 200-foot observation deck, fireplace, ski shop, game room, gift shop, Wi-Fi and a restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Equipment and clothing rentals, as well as ski instruction for all ages and levels, are available on-site. App Ski partners with local hotels to offer special ski and stay rates, which include one night of lodging and one eight-hour lift ticket. The company also owns four vacation rental properties, each within a one-minute walk of the lodge. In addition to regular hours of 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week,
Appalachian Ski Mountain is known for its “Midnight Blast.” Visitors can enjoy late-night skiing from 5 p.m. to midnight every Friday and Saturday through March 19. If you need a change of pace from skiing, take advantage of the park’s skating rink, the only Zambonimaintained rink in the region. Special event weekends include Dec. 5 and 6, the park’s anniversary weekend. For that weekend, visitors can enjoy ticket prices from 1962: $5 for the 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. day session. Special events also include brandsponsored events, skiing with Santa on Christmas Eve, ice skating on Christmas Day and a New Year’s Eve Extravaganza with fireworks. The Flex Ticket allows patrons to begin an eight-hour session as early or as late as desired. On weekdays, Flex Tickets cost $38 for adults and $29 for seniors and children younger than 12. On weekends, the same ticket is $60 for adults and $42 for children and seniors. App Ski also offers full-day packages, night sessions and half-night sessions. Ski rentals run between $8 and $30, depending on the session and day of the week, while snowboards range from $16 to $37. Full details on ticket and rental pricing are available online. Appalachian Ski Mountain also offers multi-day ski ticket packages, school snow day rates and a special
Twilight doesn’t mean the day is over on Appalachian Ski Mountain. Night sessions and ‘Midnight Blast’ sessions keep riders on the slopes well after sundown.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF APP SKI MOUNTAIN Extreme riders can try their hand at jumps and rail jams in one of App Ski Mountain’s three terrain park areas.
military discount. The season will run through April 2, weather permitting.
For more information, visit www. appskimtn.com or call (800) 3222373.
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2015-16
GET THE GEAR TO ‘HIT THE SLOPES’ Quality ski and snowboard products just a shop away
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hether one is catching big air on one of the High Country’s deathdefying double black diamonds or strapping in for their very first run down the bunny slope, every skiing or snowboarding experience begins with finding the proper gear. Knowing where to obtain quality ski and snowboarding equipment can make all the difference between a fun day on the slopes and a totally bogus fall fest. One must carefully consider where to find the best and latest in gear, or the hot spots to rent quality equipment to enjoy the time on the powder. Fortunately, the High Country’s many ski shops and outdoor adventure suppliers are able to meet most every need of skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers and those that just love to be outdoors during the coldest months of the year.
PHOTO SUBMITTED No matter what your needs this ski season, retail and rental options abound in the High Country.
With the bitter cold and blustery weather conditions that snowsport enthusiasts face each winter, equipment manufacturers often adapt from year to year, releasing cutting-edge
performance and safety equipment. To keep the whole family warm and safe and to make sure you have the gear to keep up with the crowds, it is important to know where to go
to get outfitted for the 2015-16 winter season. From winter-wear basics such as coats and gloves to the high-performance equipment for competition skiing and snowboarding, a number of local shops can outfit thrill seekers in whatever they need to keep their adventures exciting, fun and safe. Whether heading from Boone to Blowing Rock to Banner Elk, the shops listed are easy to find in the High Country’s most sought-after locales for winter sports. If new equipment is perhaps too tight on the individual or family budget, fun can still be had, as many of these retailers also provide high-end equipment rentals, making them essential stops on any adventure seeker’s way to the slopes, trails or tubing lanes. SEE GEAR, PAGE 34
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GEAR
(828) 262-5111 www.footsloggers.com
HIGHLAND HOUSE SKI RENTALS
FROM PAGE 32 Skiers and snowboarders aren’t the only people who need equipment to stay warm. Clothing, coats, gloves, hats and other items sold at local shops not only function well on the slopes, but look good for everyday winter living. Whatever the need may be, the shops listed below have the solution when it comes to winter wear and gear. To find the shop nearest to you, check the address listed with location. Not sure what you are looking for? Click to each shop’s website to learn more about what they offer. Have a specific need or question? Call any of these shops using the phone numbers listed below.
2015-16
4516 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk (828) 898-6690 www.highlandhouseskishop.com
MAST GENERAL STORE (Outfitters) 630 W. King St. Boone, N.C. (828) 262-0000 www.mastgeneralstore.com
Beech Mountain Banner Elk 3150 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-9701 www.alpineskicenter.com 394 Shawneehaw Ave. Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-9550 www.edgeoworld.com
1158 N.C. 105 Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 355-9013 www.recessrideshop.com
C-3 Beech Towers, Beech Mountain Parkway Beech Mountain, N.C. 28604 (828) 387-9291 www.alpineskicenter.com
ALPINE SKI CENTER
EDGE OF THE WORLD
RECESS SKATE
ALPINE SKI CENTER
REGEAR OUTDOORS CO. 967 Rivers St., Boone (828) 386-6100 www.regearnc.com
Boone
EXTREME SNOWBOARD AND SKIS 3071 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-3665 On Facebook
SNOW TOYS
1757 Tynecastle Highway Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 898-4199 www.snowtoysnc.com
a t n a Sadquarters
1ST TRACKS
SAGESPORT
1380 N.C. 105 Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 264-4565 www.1sttracks.com
FARMER’S SKI SHOP
140 S. Depot St. Boone, N.C. (828) 264-4565 On Facebook and Google+
Boone Mall, 1180 Blowing Rock Road Boone, N.C. 28607 (828) 262-1112 www.sagesport.com
Blowing Rock FOOTSLOGGERS (Outfitters) 921 Main St. Blowing Rock, N.C. 28605 (828) 295-4453 www.footsloggers.com
FOOTSLOGGERS (Outfitters) 139 St. Depot St. Boone, N.C.
The High Country’s Complete Mountain Adventure Store
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opping! •C hrist m as Sh asonal K e iosk • Vi s it S a n t a • S s HOURS: Mon-Sat 10am-9pm | Sun 12:30pm-5:30pm LOCATION: 1180 Blowing Rock Rd., Boone, NC PHONE: (828) 264-7286
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2015-16
WINTER TIMES
A BRIEF TREK
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here are plenty of places for people to go cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, as well as hiking, when there is snow on the ground. Sugar Mountain, Roan Mountain, Tenn., the Appalachian Trail at Carvers Gap, Tenn., Beech Mountain and Elk Knob all offer snowshoeing trails. Roan Mountain, Moses Cone Memorial Park, the Price Lake trail, trails at Grandfather Mountain and trails at Linville Falls are other options for when the snow is deeper for crosscountry skiing. Here are some trails that are ideal for hiking. Some may be used for snowshoeing or for cross-country skiing, but anybody interested in either should check with the proper authorities before attempting either.
BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY TRAILS Moses Cone Memorial Park in Blowing Rock: The course is 25 miles of road-width carriage paths, which moves through forestland between Bass Lake and the Moses Cone Mansion. It is available to hikers, joggers, horseback riders and cross-country skiers. It is located at Blue Ride Parkway milepost 294.0. Green Knob Trail: Green Knob Trail is a moderate trail that has two entrances. One is from the Sims Creek Overlook and another is from the Sims Pond Overlook. Both are accessible off the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Sims Pond entrance is at milepost 295, and both are located in Price Park neat Blowing Rock. Boone Fork Trail: The entrance to the Boone Fork Trail, a moderate to strenuous trail, is Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 296.5. The trail, which is also located in Price Memorial Park, loops through deep woods and is 4.9 miles long. Price Lake Trail: Another trail that surrounds Price Lake is 2.7 miles long is the Price Lake Trail. Access is at milepost 297.0 off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Tanawah Trail: The Tanawah Trail is 13 miles long and can be accessed either from the Price Park Campground in Blowing Rock or at the Linn Cove Viaduct parking lot at Grandfather Mountain. Access to that parking lot is from milepost 305.5 from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Maps of the trail are available at Grandfather Mountain.
Linn Cove Viaduct Access Trail: This trail, accessible from milepost 304.4 off the Blue Ridge Parkway, actually goes under the Linn Cove Viaduct. Hikers get a unique view of the viaduct, which is one of the main attractions of the Blue Ridge Parkway. There is handicapped access to the trail, but it also connects with the Mountains to the Sea Trail, to the Nuati Trail, the Boone Fork Trail and the Tanawha Trail. Beacon Heights Trail: Beacon Heights is a short trail located near Linville that has great views of Grandfather Mountain, Hawksbill and Table Rock. Access is off milepost 305.2 off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Linville Falls Trail: There are several trails that begin at the Linville Falls Visitor Center in Linville Falls. All are less than a mile in length. Two lead to the bottom of the falls and some of them lead to the top. The lower trails are more strenuous than the others. They are accessible from milepost 316.4 off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Crabtree Falls Trail: A strenuous 2.6-mile loop that leads to the top and to the bottom of Crabtee Falls. The trail starts and ends at the Crabtree Falls Campground parking area near Little Switzerland at the Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 339.5. For a listing of other trails that are close to the parkway south past the Linville Cove Viaduct, call the Gillespie Gap Ranger office at (828) 765-6082. Grandfather Mountain Trails Grandfather Mountain is an iconic mountain in the Avery-Watauga county area. It has several trails that can be a challenge for the most experienced hikers. Inclement weather can strike without warning, so carrying food, water and a map of the area is recommended. Check online for a map trail guide at www. grandfather.com.
Linville Gorge trails This is a list of some of the more popular and longer trails in the Linville Gorge area. The Linville Gorge Wilderness is one of the most remote, rugged and dangerous wildernesses in the area and in the Eastern United States. Hikers and campers getting lost is not uncommon in this area. Deaths are also not uncommon. It is strongly recommended that hikers and campers carry a topographical map and know how to use a compass. Maps, permits, information on other trails and safety details are available at the U.S. Forest Service office in Marion. Permits are required for overnight outings. For more information, call (828) 652-2144.
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FORGET THE OCEAN, VISIT THE BEECH
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eech Mountain is a towering presence in the High Country ski scene — literally. The resort has the distinction of being the area’s highest slope, sitting at an impressive elevation of 5,506 feet. Established in 1967, the resort has a long history of entertaining visitors to the High Country and it is proud of this distinction. It is always looking for new ways to entertain and provide for its guests. “We take a lot of pride in our customer experience. We really put forth the effort to make sure our customers are happy and enjoy their stay,” Talia Freeman, Beech’s marketing director, said. This season, Beech has gone above and beyond with renovations and additions. The most important, perhaps, is the improvement to its snowmaking system. The resort has added 14 new SMI “Super Polecat” snow guns in an effort to maintain quality control over its product — snow. Renovations didn’t stop at snowmaking, however. The resort has also completed a project to update the onsite restaurant, Beech Tree Bar and Grille. Originally constructed in the late 1960s, the restaurant has a totally new look for the 2015-2016 season. In addition to the interior design facelift, the restaurant has added new HD televisions and reopened the balcony bar. In addition, Beech Mountain maintains an on-site brewery. Completed last season and located at the ski village, the brewery has recently brought on a new head brewer with Lees-McRae College graduate Billy Smith. A New York native, Smith brings some serious accolades to the table atop Beech. Last year, his “Beech Blonde Ale” took third place at the North Carolina State Fair. From the hardline skier to the beer enthusiast, Beech is proud of the wide range of attractions that it offers.
PHOTOS SUBMITTED Snowcovered Beech Mountain offers ski and snowboard enthusiasts a winter wonderland of activity throughout the season.
“We have live music and parties, but we also have family events,” Freeman said. “Our village has shops and several dining options you often don’t have at other resorts. At Beech Mountain Resort, there is literally something to do for every demographic.” But if all you are interested in is the slopes, Beech won’t let you down. The mountain runs offer 95 skiable acres with an elevation change of 800 feet. Beech has a large capacity for sports enthusiasts, with room for 9,300 skiers per hour. For those looking for a more relaxed experience — perhaps without an 800-foot drop — Beech has just completed a new tubing park and, according to Freeman, it’s the best one yet. “The new facility is over 700 feet
long, with multiple lanes and a carpet conveyor. It’s right next to the ice skating rink and our coffee shop, so it’s perfect,” Freeman said. If tubing isn’t your pursuit, Beech has 15 slopes that are serviced by seven ski lifts. In addition, if, like raising a child, good skiing takes a village, Beech maybe the best appointed ski resort in the South. It has just that — a village. The resort offers four restaurants, three sports shops and facilities for clothing and ski rentals. To top it off, and to complete the picture of the quintessential winter wonderland, Beech even has a 7,000-square-foot outdoor ice rink. According to Freeman, one of the most popular attractions available to guests on the mountain is the aptly named 5506’ Skybar.
A glass roundhouse situated at the pinnacle of Beech Mountain, the Skybar offers visitors unprecedented views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Perhaps equally as important, the Skybar offers food, drinks and even heated restrooms, all at more than a mile in elevation. Beech Mountain is a veritable onestop shop for almost anything a visitor to the High Country would ever want to do in the winter. Whether you want to barrel down the slopes from the highest ski resort in the Eastern United States, or have some local coffee at one the resort’s many restaurants, no one will leave the mountain disappointed. For more information on Beech Mountain, call (828) 387-2011 or visit www.beechmountainresort.com.
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PHOTO SUBMITTED The Crossnore School has entered its second century and is the only residential foster care home in the state that has a public K-12 charter school — the Marjorie Williams Academy.
THE CROSSNORE SCHOOL
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or more than a century, The Crossnore School has been known as a place of hope and healing, a place that prepares youngsters for successful futures, regardless of their past. Since its early days when school founder Mary T. Martin Sloop and her pioneering doctor husband, Eustace Smith, sought to find a way to improve young lives through enhanced education and medical practices, the Crossnore campus has been known as “Miracle Mountain.” According to current CEO Brett Loftis, miracles are still happening in the quaint mountain sanctuary, considered today across the country as a model facility. While the school has evolved through the years, the mission has remained the same. The Crossnore School has entered its second century and is a nondenominational Christian residential foster care group home for children in
A place of hope and healing North Carolina. It is the only residential foster care home in the state that has a public K-12 charter school — the Marjorie Williams Academy — where all its children attend and where about 40 community students who really want that small, intense learning environment are also enrolled, Loftis said. In 2014, the charter school was named for Williams, whose family is an advocate for The Crossnore School and education. Occupying 85 acres in the historic Crossnore community, the school includes 10 homelike cottages where professional loving (cottage) parents live with 85 resident children, 45 high school age and 40 in kindergarten through eighth-grades, ranging from age of 1 to 21. All of the youngsters, with a couple of exceptions, Loftis said, are placed at Crossnore by departments of social services, having been removed from their homes because of abuse or neglect.
“They are here, really through no fault of their own, but, rather, caught up in situations they could not help,” he said. The school is known for admitting and caring for sibling groups and is invested in keeping siblings together, Loftis added. “Currently, our youngest just turned 1 and is part of a five-sister family,” he said. “It is important to us that they are not separated and are able to live in a traditional family setting.” Several toddlers live on campus, too. The Crossnore School is recognized as a national model for residential education, Loftis said. “Our holistic approach, using the Theory of Change model, allows us to care for and nurture each child’s mind, body and spirit. On-site medical care, trauma-based therapeutic services, a wide variety of extracurricular enrichment activities and a state-of-the-art public charter school on campus
makes us a unique place for children to live, learn and prosper,” he said. People from across the country consider the school as a national model and visit often to observe and attempt to replicate its program, he said. Presently, all cottages are full, with about 30 children turned away each month due to lack of space, he said. To help alleviate that situation, the school is currently in the midst of a “huge campaign to build a young children’s village, which will serve 27 young children,” he said. Three new cottages, each serving nine children, are scheduled to open in the spring. “Out focus for this project is children 12 and younger,” Loftis said. “Most of our present cottages are designed more for adolescents, but we are super excited about this next phase. It will have an adventure playground in the middle and will be right SEE CROSSNORE, PAGE 39
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CROSSNORE FROM PAGE 38 beside our charter school.” A new high school opened in August, Loftis said, which allowed for expansion of kindergarten to eighthgrades. “The school was part of a comprehensive campaign we just finished, which takes us into our second century,” Loftis said. “We raised more than $20 million to build toward the future, the high school, new cottages and to help launch the next 100 years at Crossnore.” It all plays into Dr. Sloop’s vision for using a safe home and wonderful education to help children overcome obstacles for their future, he said. With about 10,000 North Carolina children in foster care, the majority of outcomes are not good, Loftis said. “Most are not graduating, they aren’t going to college and are repeating generational cycles,” he said. “Interventions, like ours, have amazing outcomes. We just have to find ways to serve more kids.” One thing, presently, that keeps him awake at night, he said, is the number of children they are turning away.
Part of the strategic planning process for the future is possible expansion of services across the state, he said. Currently, children remain on campus until their foster home is identified, which, for some, might be a with a biological family member, and for others, Loftis said, “a forever home is an adoptive home.” A certain number will choose to go into Crossnore’s independent living program, where they will remain until they are ready to go out on their own. “We help them through high school, then college, if they desire,” he said. A variety of therapeutic opportunities are offered at The Crossnore School, from family and play therapy to substance abuse and equine therapy, Loftis said.
A MISSION TO HEAL It is the goal of the school to provide a Christian sanctuary of hope and healing, where students in need rise above their circumstances and excel both in school and in life, he said. It’s all about positively transforming the lives of children from families in SEE CROSSNORE, PAGE 40
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CROSSNORE FROM PAGE 39 crisis by breaking down generational cycles and creating a hope and future through education, work and service. “Our role is to parent and support them toward healing, so they can be ready for the rest of their lives,” Loftis said. “Their past doesn’t have to define them. We help them break the cycle from where they’ve come. We not only help them deal with the hard stuff, but help them focus on their future, as well.” Since coming to Crossnore nearly three years ago with his wife and two sons, to continue his career dedicated to child advocacy, Loftis said he loves hearing the youngsters say they are happy at Crossnore.
PROGRAMS FOR SUCCESS Numerous programs in place at The Crossnore School help the young residents reach their optimal potential for happiness and success, he said. The school’s adoption placement program partners with the counties it serves to effectively and efficiently recruit for and match children who desire to be adopted with qualified loving families. All prospective adoptive parents must submit a completed application with the school and are selected based upon favorable reviews and background checks.
STEPPING STONES Many of the school’s residents, ages 17 to 21, have found the stepping stones program to be the final gateway to becoming accomplished adults through Crossnore. The program recognizes and rewards students who have made enough progress toward independence to live with minimal supervision, he said. These students are able to have jobs, on and off campus, and are able to move toward independence through a safety net of nurturing, which includes assistance with housing, college enrollment, employment, coaching in personal finances, church attendance, healthy adult relationships, car ownership, access to continued health care and continued therapy. “We are very happy that the General
2015-16
Assembly worked really hard on a bill recently to raise the age of foster care to 21, instead of them getting kicked out of the system at 18,” he said. “We never want them to reach that age and feel as if they are forgotten and have nowhere to turn.”
MIRACLE SCHOLARS Students graduating from high school at Crossnore have access to the miracle scholars program, which is designed to provide much needed support for those who might not be quite sure about their future plans, he said. The program includes an independent residential college experience and an aftercare support initiative. “Participants, who must adhere to established guidelines, live in a sevenbedroom home (equipped for six students plus one cottage parent) near Mayland Community College,” he said, where most begin their college career before pursuing further education and full-time employment. “We want to support students who are no longer in our direct care, but are occasionally in need of special assistance,” he said. A number of individuals are currently in a four-year college and still come “home” to Crossnore for special occasions. Some come back to work on campus.
PET NURTURING Another integral part of campus life at Crossnore is the pet nurturing program, which Loftis said is as healing for the animals as it is for the children. “Every cottage has a dog that has been rescued from the local humane society,” Loftis said. “It is one of the best agents of healing for our children. Often, children come into the school’s care nervous, angry, sad and afraid, Loftis said, but they find comfort and support from the cottage dogs from the start. The dogs become a source of love for the children and help teach them the responsibility of taking care of others, he said, which also allows the children a chance to love unconditionally Equine therapy on campus is another important part of the pet nurturing program, which is currently centered around four rescued horses — two fullsize and two miniatures. SEE CROSSNORE, PAGE 42
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CROSSNORE FROM PAGE 40 SUPPORTING FROM WITHIN Within The Crossnore School are four internal business operations that not only help provide support for the school, as well as jobs for its students, but also serve the community. Having evolved from Sloop’s initiatives to help clothe young girls in the early 1900s, The Blair Fraley Sales Store continues today to offer quality clothing, and more, donated by supporters far and wide and then sold at the store to benefit the school. The store was most recently named for the young daughter of trustee John Fraley and Guyann Fraley who died in a bicycle accident. The store accepts any and all new or previously owned clothing, household furniture, jewelry, books and miscellaneous items in good condition and working appliances. Deliveries are welcomed and pick ups can be arranged. The Blair Fraley Sales Store is located at 100 DAR Drive in Crossnore and is open from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. PHOTO SUBMITTED The pet-nurturing program is an integral part of campus life at Crossnore which is as much a healing process for the animals as it is for the children.
THE WEAVING ROOM Another of Sloop’s innovative approaches that has stood the test of time is the Weaving Room, founded in 1913 as a way keep alive the mountain craft of hand weaving, to help local women support their family’s income and promote the school through the sale of handwoven goods, which have been shipped all over the world. The Weaving Room is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. It is located at 205 Johnson Lane in Crossnore. In the same location with the same operating hours is the Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery, which represents regional painters, sculptors and fine crafters who want to help the children of The Crossnore School. The gallery specially supports the school’s Stepping Stones program.
occupied a colorful place in the history of the town of Crossnore for decades. One of the oldest commercial buildings in town, it is thought to have been built in the 1920s from stone from the Linville River, just as many of Crossnore’s historic buildings were, including Crossnore Weavers and Fine Arts Gallery, E.H. Sloop Chapel and the Crossnore Presbyterian Church. The building was acquired by the school in 2006 and serves coffees selected from around the world, many of which are organically grown and all purchased in fair trade business agreements by Conrad’s, which roasts the coffee beans in nearby Boone. Miracle Grounds also serves a variety of specialty drinks, teas and breakfast and lunch specials daily.
MIRACLE GROUNDS COFFEE SHOP AND CAFE While Loftis said that the entire campus of The Crossnore School could be called “Miracle Grounds,” the particular building housing the Miracle Grounds Coffee Shop and Cafe has
SLOOP CHAPEL Home of the Ben Long fresco, “Suffer the Little Children,” the Sloop Chapel is another campus structure that has a long-held historic value. With daily viewings available from 8:30 a. m. to 5 p.m., the fresco brings
to life the Scripture from Mark 10:14: “Suffer the little children to come unto me and forbid them not; for such is the kingdom of God.” The chapel is also a site for weddings, with details provided and reservations arranged through the school’s administrative offices. GET INVOLVED The success of The Crossnore School would be impossible without the generosity of its many supporters through the years who have provided financial gifts, as well as time and talent, Loftis said, As a community-minded campus, Crossnore welcomes individuals and families to become involved, to make a difference in the children’s lives by enhancing the overall campus community and by being a positive, healthy influence. In addition to welcoming off-campus students to the charter school, one of the campus’s “coolest partnerships,” Loftis said, is with the local YMCA in hosting the community’s soccer field.
“Every day of the week, kids from all over the county are here and we love it,” he said. Numerous volunteer opportunities abound on the campus, including positive role model mentoring; reading with students to help fill educational gaps; sharing special skills or talent, such as music or art; developing a relationship with one of the cottages to further enhance cottage living; and supporting staff by offering skills in maintenance, housekeeping and landscaping. Loftis applauds people who have helped shape the school during the years into what it is today. He notes, especially, the dedication of the “very active board of directors — a wonderful group of folks from all over the Southeast, passionate about the mission of our Christian sanctuary for kids.” The board includes a successful businesswoman, now in her 80s, who was once a student at the school. SEE CROSSNORE, PAGE 43
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PHOTOS SUBMITTED The building was acquired by the The Crossnore School in 2006 and serves coffees selected from around the world.
CROSSNORE FROM PAGE 42 The Crossnore School is one of six schools and colleges in the nation affiliated with the Daughters of the American Revolution. The Crossnore School depends on private resources to support the school’s annual operating budget and to provide a safe place of hope and healing for its children. “The incredible outpouring of support inspires us to manage our resources with the highest level of integrity and stewardship,” Loftis said. Tax-deductible donations may be mailed to P.O. Box 249, Crossnore, NC 28616. For more information about giving of your time and/or resources to The Crossnore School or to learn more about the programs it offers, call (828) 733-4305, email info@crossnoreschool.org or visit www.crossnoreschool.org. The school is located at 100 DAR Drive.
The Crossnore School is recognized as a national model for residential education and provides a safe home and wonderful education to help children overcome obstacles for their future.
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CHOOSE AND CUT: T
here’s no better way to spend time with your family during the holiday season than making a special trip to a nearby Christmas tree farm and handpicking the tree that’s just right for your home. The majestic Fraser fir represents more than 90 percent of the live Christmas trees sold each year, and the High Country is one of the few places that can grow this species of tree. North Carolina alone has 1,600 farms producing an estimated 50 million Fraser fir Christmas trees each year, and a bevy of these farms are located in the High Country. Many local tree farms offer “choose-and-cut” services, allowing visitors to comb the tree farm and pick out the tree ideal for their needs. During the holiday season, countless cars can be seen traveling the highways of the High Country with Christmas trees strapped to the roofs, many of which were found at chooseand-cut farms. Even though the crisp winter air may feel cold while choosing the perfect tree, bonding with friends and family and the sight of a new tree in your home around Christmas makes choose and cut a truly heartwarming experience. The North Carolina Christmas Tree Association encourages those celebrating the holidays with a Christmas tree to purchase real trees rather than artificial ones. According to the Christmas Tree Association, real Christmas trees are grown on American family farms, which are making an important economic contribution to many rural communities of the United States. Also, real Christmas trees are cited as being better for the environment by absorbing greenhouse gases while they are still in the field. Plus,
No better place to be
PHOTOS BY ROB MOORE Dozens of Christmas tree farms such as this one are located throughout the High Country, and even though each farm has its own distinctive feel, the mission remains the same: to sell high quality trees to customers.
one acre of Christmas trees provides the daily oxygen requirement for 18 people. Because there are approximately 500,000 acres of Christmas trees in the United States, the farms collectively provide oxygen for 9 million people daily. Also, young, fast growing Christmas trees in the field release more oxygen than mature forest trees, according to the association. Live Christmas trees also provide a unique fragrance that is normally found only around the holidays. However, for those who may be
allergic to the tree, there is a suggestion from the Christmas Tree Association. Allergic reactions can be greatly reduced, if not done away with, by spraying the tree with water before bringing it inside, the association said. More than 400 Christmas tree farms offer choose-and-cut services to visitors in North Carolina. Information about choose-and-cut farms can be found on the following websites: www.ashecountychristmastrees.com, www.averycountychristmastrees.org and www.wataugachristmastrees.org.
Several choose-and-cut farms offer a variety of sizes and species of tree, and many also sell wreaths and other items.
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RELAX AT THE HIGH COUNTRY’S DESTINATION AND DAY SPAS
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arve in time for taking care of body and mind amid your many winter adventures in the High Country.
nail treatment area, a complimentary Swan Bar and women’s and men’s locker rooms. Adjoining the spa is a heated indoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and fitness room. Wellness programs include fitness and cooking classes. The spa features a wide variety of services, including massage therapies, facials, nail treatments, teeth-whitening treatments and cosmetic applications. For more information, call (800) 243-8652, email spa@chetola.com or visit www.chetola.com/spa.html.
DESTINATION SPAS WESTGLOW RESORT & SPA 224 Westglow Circle Blowing Rock, NC 28605 Recognized among the “Top Destination Spa Resorts in the World” in the Condé Nast Traveler 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards, Westglow Resort & Spa is an all-inclusive resort in Blowing Rock offering customized spa experiences for a spa vacation, weekend getaway or day retreat. Westglow Spa offers Vichy rain therapies and body services, including a firming seaweed and mud wrap, eucalyptus salt glow, detoxification body wrap, deep tissue body massage, Thai massage, raindrop therapy and more.
PHOTO SUBMITTED Winter takes a toll and visiting a spa is a way to revitalize the body.
ART OF LIVING RETREAT CENTER 911 Rock Cliff Road Boone, NC 28607
Fitness and weight loss packages are offered, and medical treatments include CoolSculpting and Botox. Multiple facial, hair, nail and wax services are also available. For more information, call (828) 295-4463 or (800) 562-0807, email info@westglow.com or visit westglow-
resortandspa.com.
THE SPA AT CHETOLA RESORT 500 N. Main St. Blowing Rock, NC 28605 The Spa at Chetola Resort opened in 2009, offering five treatment rooms (one for couples), a relaxation room,
The menu of services at the Art of Living Retreat Center Spa was created to offer guests life-enhancing treatments based on the principles of Ayurveda. A variety of massages, facials and holistic treatments are SEE SPA, PAGE 47
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SPA FROM PAGE 46 available, as well as a hotel with incredible views, balanced vegetarian meals, yoga and meditation. For more information, visit artoflivingretreatcenter.org/spa or call (828) 264-8382.
SPA AT CRESTWOOD 3236 Shulls Mill Road Boone, N.C. 28607
Therapeutic services and treatments at the Spa at Crestwood include the highest grade of professional massage and skin therapy services available, including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, facials and aromatherapy. In addition, each spa guest is also invited to enjoy access to Crestwood’s lap pool, steam bath, sauna and cardio fitness center. For more information, call (877) 836-5046 or visit www.crestwoodnc. com/spa-services-packages.
THE SPA AT ESEEOLA LODGE 34 Dogwood Street Linville, NC 28646
The Eseeola Spa is a new spa experience at the historic Eseeola Lodge in Linville. Located near the premier restaurant and accommodations of the Eseeola Lodge and the Linville Golf Club, the spa offers stone massage, aromatherapy massage, golfer’s massage, facials, body wraps and scrubs, as well as hair, nail and waxing services. The spa also has a full health club fitness facility, pool and activity center. For more information, call (828) 737-9500 or visit EseeolaSpa.com.
DAY SPAS
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Let’s Go Skiing Check out our “Snow Sports” tab under “Play”
HEAVENLY TOUCH DAY SPA 246-D Wilson Drive Boone, NC 28607
Heavenly Touch in Boone offers a variety of spa services, including facials, waxing, massages, body treatments, sunless tanning, manicures and pedicures, GloMinerals makeup and more. Gift cards and packages are available. For more information, call (828) 264-4335 or visit heavenlytouchboone. com. SEE SPA, PAGE 48
HighCountryNC.com
live the adventure
Celebrating 21 Years ears
ORIGINAL ART WORK 7539 Valley Blvd. (Next to Food Lion) Mon. - Sat. 9-5pm
828.295.0041 blowingrockgalleries.com by Herman Herzog
by Lita Gatlin
by Wes Waugh
* Taking orders for Christmas until December 22nd, guaranteed by Christmas
by Wiili
Some of the artists we represent, from the past to the present, among others:
Elliot Dangerfield • Philip Moose • Jason Drake • Wes Waugh • Lita Gatlin Edward Szmyd • Herman Herzog • Pat Pilkington • David Wilson • Wiili
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WINTERFEST
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e here in the High Country are among the lucky few inhabitants of the Southeast who enjoy a proper winter. Folks in Charlotte and Atlanta might see a flake or two each year, only to have it melt as soon as it hits the ground. To share our good fortune with folks off the mountain, the town of Blowing Rock holds a giant celebration each year called WinterFest. This fourday event, presented by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce, features the Polar Plunge at Chetola Lake, WinterFeast, an ice carving competition, Chilly Chili Cook-Off, Little Miss WinterFest Pageant and much more. The next WinterFest will be held in Blowing Rock on Jan. 28-31, 2016, and tickets to all of the events are already selling at a rapid pace. Here are some of the highlights of WinterFest 2016:
ONGOING EVENTS From Thursday through Sunday, Jan. 28-31, the annual High Country
SPA FROM PAGE 47
7TH HEAVEN DAY SPA 4457 N.C. 105 South Boone, N.C. 28607 Swedish massage, sports massage, lymphatic massage, prenatal, hot stone massage, wraps, stress management counseling, facials and hair removal are among the services offered by 7th Heaven Day Spa. Multiple discounts and specials are available. For more information, call (828) 963-2355 or visit 7thheaven.vpweb. com.
SERENITY DAY SPA 72 Arnett Road Banner Elk, NC 28604 Serenity Day Spa in Banner Elk offers massage, facials, microdermabrasion, body treatments, manicures, pedicures and waxing.
Small Plate Crawl will be held in conjunction with WinterFest 2106. Dozens of independently owned restaurants in the High Country will create small plate menus, priced from $3 to $8, featuring their unique cuisine and chefs’ imaginations. Participating restaurants are in Blowing Rock, Boone and Valle Crucis. For more information, visit www.platecrawl.com. Blowing Rock merchants will feature a multitude of sales and specials as part of WinterFest’s Shop Til You Drop event. Didn’t get one or two items you were hoping for this past Christmas? Chances are you’ll find it in Blowing Rock.
THURSDAY, JAN. 28 WinterFeast will take place with three seatings at Timberlake’s Restaurant at Chetola Resort from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 28. This is your chance to sample the best that the chefs of Blowing Rock restaurants have to offer. Participating SEE WINTERFEST, PAGE 49
Its location — across from the entrance to Sugar Mountain and directly behind Extreme in Banner Elk — offers a charming cottage atmosphere with four treatment rooms, a couples room and fireplace. Relax in the sunroom between appointments and enjoy a cup of hot apple cider. Owner and operator Cari Ashbaugh has worked as a licensed massage therapist for 25 years and a skin care specialist for 15 years. For more information, call (828) 898-3550, email cashbaugh@charter. net or visit relaxatserenity.com.
PHOTO BY JEFF EASON One of the main events during WinterFest is the Polar Plunge at Chetola Resort on Saturday, Jan 30.
are available. For more information, call (828) 265-1029 or visit www.lavenderfieldssalon.com.
THE WISDOM TREE 719A Greenway Road Boone, NC 28607 The Wisdom Tree provides therapeutic massage, body and energy work, reiki, hot stones and wraps, as well as exercise and movement classes and gifts. For more information, visit www. thewisdomtreenc.com or call (828) 964-7600.
LAVENDER FIELDS SKIN CARE AND LASER SPA
NATURAL HEALING DAY SPA
820-C State Farm Road Boone, N.C. 28607
144 Azalea Circle Banner Elk, NC 28604
Laser hair removal, permanent makeup, corrective facials, electrolysis, massages, nail care and more are among the services provided at Lavender Fields. Free consultations
Natural Healing Day Spa is a North Carolina day spa and wellness center that has been in business for more than 20 years. Natural Healing offers many spa and therapeutic services to
help clients achieve health and wellbeing. Services include massage therapy, facials, body wraps and scrubs, foot reflexology and a variety of manicures and pedicures. Wellness and weight loss services include infrared sauna sessions. For more information, call (828) 898-8400 or visit naturalhealingdayspa.com.
THE RIVERSIDE SPA 9649 N.C. 105 South Banner Elk, NC 28604 The Riverside Spa in Foscoe offers high quality spa treatments in a relaxing environment. Services include therapeutic massage, sports massage, deep tissue massage, Swedish massage, trigger point therapy, prenatal massage, hot stone massage, salt glow, paraffin treatments, facials, oxygen facials, peels, waxing and tinting. For more information, call (828) 963-7800.
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WINTERFEST FROM PAGE 48 restaurants include Timberlake’s Resturant, Canyons, the Blowing Rock Ale House, Roots Restaurant, Chestnut Grille at the Green Park Inn, The Table at Crestwood, Bald Guy Brew, Bistro Roca, Restaurant G at Gideon Ridge, the New Public House, Stick Boy Bread Company, Rowland’s Restaurant at Westglow, Six Pence Pub and Woodland’s Barbecue. Advance tickets are $27 and $32. Twigs Restaurant and Bar will host a WinterFeast After Party from 8:30 p.m. to midnight on Thursday, Jan. 28. Enjoy drink specials and shake your tail feathers to the groovy sounds of the Jacob Johnson Band. For more information, call Twigs at (828) 2955050.
FRIDAY, JAN. 29 WinterFest’s annual WinterFashion Show will take place at the Meadowbrook Inn beginning at 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 29. The event will include a fashion show with styles provided by Doncaster, Monkees,
WINTER TIMES TazMaRaz, Almost Rodeo Drive, Celeste’s, J.W. Tweeds, Take Heart, Sister Act and Sunset Tees and Hattery. The fashion show is followed by a “winter warming” lunch. Tickets are $27 per person. For more information, call (828) 295-7851. Weather permitting, the WinterFest Bonfire will be held from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Blowing Rock Memorial Park on Friday and Saturday. Make your own toasted marshmallow or go all out by making s’mores. All supplies will be provided. The event is presented by Blowing Rock Boy Scout Troop 101 and will feature live music. The event will not take place in high wind, rain or extreme cold. The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum will present “Cork and Canvas” at the museum beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Friday. Led by an art instructor, you get to paint in a group setting, while tasting a selection of fine wine and hors d’oeuvres. All materials, including paint, canvas and wine, are provided. The cost is $30 for BRAHM members and $40 for nonmembers and reservations are recommended as seating is limited. For more information, call BRAHM at (828) 295-9099.
Appalachian Ski Mountain will host WinterFest Family Night from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday. Learn to ski/learn to snowboard packages will be offered through French-Swiss Ski College with special pricing. A special ice skating session with s’mores roasting by the rinkside bonfire is also offered. Reservations are suggested. For more information, call (828) 295-9311.
SATURDAY, JAN. 30 The WinterFest Silent Auction and Raffle will be held at the Blowing Rock School cafeteria from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. The event includes hundreds of items, including gift packages, vacation packages, gift baskets, housewares, restaurant packages, cabin rentals, ASU game tickets and more. The raffle and silent auction benefit Mountain Alliance, a local nonprofit that takes teenagers on outdoor adventures. The town of Blowing Rock will offer free WinterFest hayrides from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, departing from the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce. The annual Polar Plunge at Chetola Resort is one of the most popular
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events during WinterFest. Watch as brave, yet foolhardy souls, jump into the frigid waters of Chetola Lake. Some years, they have to cut through the ice with chain saws to make a hole for the leapers. The event starts at 10 a.m. on Saturday and is free. The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum is offering free admission from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday during WinterFest. Come in, warm up and enjoy some wonderful art at BRAHM. The event includes winter crafts for kids from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. The Blowing Rock Parks and Recreation Department, located behind Memorial Park, is offering free kids activities from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday during WinterFest. Enjoy crafts and games in a safe, family oriented environment. WinterFest’s Chilly Chili Cookoff is where chili lovers come to warm up from the inside out. The event takes place at the Blowing Rock School gymnasium from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. Categories include Freestyle (amateur), Restaurant and Business, with prizes for the top finishers. SEE WINTERFEST, PAGE 50
“Beech Mountain’s ard Best Ski & Snowbo Rentals for 32 Years!”
Grocery • Deli • Ski and Snowboard Rentals • Hardware Gifts • Outdoor Clothing & Winter Footwear Open Everyday from 7:30am to 10:00pm (828) 387-4838 501 Beech Mountain Parkway • Beech Mountain, NC • www.fredsgeneral.com
Come visit us at Eastern America’s Highest Town
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I
WINTER TIMES
TAKE IT SLOW AND EASY
t takes just one winter, or even a small part of it, to realize that driving on these mountain roads requires extra time, caution and patience. It doesn’t take a deep snowfall for the roads to become treacherous, as even the least bit of precipitation can result in dangerous travel, depending on the temperature. And, we know the mercury can drop quickly this time every year and often without fair warning. Winter travel requires extra precaution and preparation, even before the snow begins to fall. First of all, it is important to make sure that your vehicle is ready to face nature’s fury by having it “winterized” at the beginning of the season and keeping it maintained throughout the coming months. Snow tires and/or chains are a must in these mountains, with tire pressure checks frequently needed. Adequate amounts of fuel should be in the tank at all times, just in case you are stranded on the roadside, or in the middle of a traffic jam due to an accident.
Your exhaust system should be checked to prevent any deadly fumes from seeping through the vents. Check wiper blades, battery, oil and other fluid levels (anti — freeze) brakes and belts. Stock your car with a few basics that might prove to be necessities should you become stranded or find yourself in a ditch:
morning with snow piling up outside your window, you will not have to panic. When the weather turns bad, you should obtain from a local news source — television, radio or a reliable social media informant — the conditions of the roads that you will be traveling, or those in the immediate or nearby area.
• A scraper and brush, small shovel, jumper cables, tow rope or chain. • A bag of sand, cat litter or caret strips for tire traction. • Road flares, reflectors or a brightly colored cloth to tie to your door handle or antenna. • Flashlight with extra batteries. • Extra clothing: hats, earmuffs, gloves, coats and boots in case you have to walk for help. • Nonperishable food/protein, for example, canned nuts and granola/protein bars. • Extra windshield washer fluid and antifreeze
• For those vehicles not garaged overnight, it is imperative that vehicles be given a chance to warm up, and that all snow and ice be cleared from windows, side mirrors and lights before leaving the driveway. • The hood and roof should be cleared, as well, as large clumps of snow or ice falling from the top of the vehicle, or blowing up from the hood, can easily block the driver’s view. • Leave plenty of room between your vehicle and those in front of you. • Pay close attention to those around you. • Use brakes carefully. Antilock brakes do not work well on ice and snow and often will lock up your wheels. • If your car begins to fishtail or slide on the road, it usually means you are going
Preparing your vehicle for the winter is vital, so when you wake one
STARTING OUT
WINTERFEST FROM PAGE 49 Admission is $7 per person. Those wanting to enter the competition should call the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 295-7851. Artisan Ice Sculptures has joined forces with WinterFest this year to bring to Blowing Rock the Southeast Regional Invitational Ice Carving Competition. The event will take place at Memorial Park from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday. The annual Little Miss WinterFest Pageant takes place from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday at the Meadowbrook Inn. All contestants will receive a tiara, and winners will be awarded a satin monogrammed banner and crown. The competition will be based on winter wear, so no special apparel is necessary. The cost is $5 to enter. For more information, call (828) 295-4300. At 3 p.m. on Saturday, the very first WinterFest Snowflake Parade will take place in downtown Blowing Rock. The parade will feature WinterFest mas-
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too fast and will have difficultly successfully correcting. If you begin sliding, turn your wheels in the direction that the rear of your car is sliding. • It is easy to steer too far, causing the car to slide in the other direction. If this happens (called overcorrecting), you’ll need to turn in the opposite direction. • Remember that bridges freeze first, so meet them slowly. • Even roads that appear clear can have sudden slippery spots and invisible “black” ice. • Don’t become too confident just because you are driving a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Many are heavier than passenger vehicles and actually may take longer to stop. • Look further ahead in traffic than you normally do. Actions by cars and trucks will alert you quicker to problems and give you a split-second extra time to react safely. • Leave room for maintenance vehicles and plows; stay back at least 200 feet and don’t pass on the right. Remember, too, that some of the debris they are scraping may blow toward your vehicle. • Maintain a slow, safe speed and always wear a seat belt.
cots Crystal and Chilly, children with homemade snowflakes, animals and more. For more information, call (828) 295-7851. WinterFest’s Wine Tasting and Charity Auction will be held at the Green Park Inn from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. The tasting begins at 2 p.m. and the auction begins at 4 p.m. The tasting features wines from all over the world and the auction features special wines and wine-related merchandise. For more information, call (828) 414-9230. Firewalk Productions will present the first WinterFest Firewalk from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Saturday at Blowing Rock Memorial Park. Come see daring Dave Albin walk barefoot over hot coals and speak of overcoming your fears. If the wind is too high for hot coals, Albin will be walking over a bed of broken glass. The demonstration is free. For more information, or tickets to any of the Blowing Rock WinterFest 2016 events, call the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 2957851.
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PHOTO SUBMITTED Mystery Hill is located between Boone and Blowing Rock on U.S. 321.
WONDERS UNFOLD AT MYSTERY HILL
W
hen you finish hitting the slopes this winter, check out some of the High Country’s more offthe-wall wonders at Mystery Hill in Blowing Rock. Although physicists believe they are getting close to identifying the mystical energy source that seemingly defies the laws of science at the attraction, owner Wayne Underwood would just as well see the mystery continue. And it’s not just because Underwood has a vested interest as a businessmen to see gravity turn a blind eye to the happenings of what was once an unassuming apple orchard that now attracts tourists as far away from Miami, Fla., on an annual basis. For Underwood and guests of the museum, Mystery Hill is more than just a funhouse of trick mirrors and platforms for optical illusions that fool even the most discerning eyes. Mystery Hill is a hall of cherished memories that instantly overwhelm guests, who have now become more like family as
the years pass, with a distinct feel of nostalgia and perhaps a yearning for “the good old days.” The museum and adjoining properties are home to more than 40 puzzles, games and illusions that continue to stump tourists and scientific sleuths who are fans of the weird and unknown. Some of the fan favorites include what Underwood calls “mystery rocks” that glow under fluorescent lighting, a “spooky spigot” that drips water despite not being firmly connected to anything, a magic mirror, the floating ball and a puzzle room. One of the museum’s more popular attractions, “Shadow Play,” often leaves guests’ hair standing on end as they try to figure out why their silhouette remains on the wall after moving away. “About 70 percent of our customers are repeat,” Underwood said. “A lot haven’t been here in 10, 15, 20 years, but they do keep coming back, and a lot keep coming back four times a
year.” A fresh rotation of exhibits maintaining a mix of the fan favorites enables Mystery Hill to attract a fresh clientele, while respecting the demands of returning guests. “The things that keep them coming back is it’s fun, different and unusual,” Underwood said. “We keep changing the exhibits. We have some new exhibits on the board now, and we have got to add new square footage to the museum and add new exhibits that will mystify and puzzle people.” The family appeal of Mystery Hill adds to the attraction’s overall charm and heritage of being a mountain retreat where guests can truly let their minds wander — and wonder. “To be able to have a place where people can come and have fun as a family is what makes it special to me,” Underwood said. “It seems like families don’t get to do things together as much as they used to. To have a place where they can come do that is special to us.”
Rates and hours Children 5 years and younger are admitted free with a paying adult. Children ages 5 to 12 are admitted for $7, and admission costs $9 for individuals between the ages of 13 and 59. Ages 60 and older are admitted for $8. Group rates start for groups of 12 people or more. The park is open rain or shine. Mystery Hill is open year-round, except Christmas Day, seven days a week. Winter hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (828) 2642792 or visit www.mysteryhill-nc.com. For the price of admission, guests can also tour the 1903 home of Appalachian State University’s founders and the Moon Arrowhead Collection. The Riverside Cabins, located along the banks of the South Fork of the New River, can be rented for $100 per night. Mystery Hill is located off Highway 321 at 129 Mystery Hill Lane in Blowing Rock.
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ASHE COUNTY FRESCOES
A touch of Italian artistry nestled in the High Country
F
rescoes — plural noun — a painting done rapidly in watercolor on wet plaster on a wall or ceiling, so that the colors penetrate the plaster and become fixed as it dries, used in Roman times and by the great masters of the Italian Renaissance, including Giotto, Masaccio and Michelangelo. Today, one does not need to fly to Italy to admire the works of frescoes. Thousands come from miles around to Ashe County to take in the painted works of art inside the Episcopal churches. Benjamin Franklin Long IV, Ashe County’s frescoes artist, learned his craft from renowned international artist Pietro Annigoni while devoting himself to mastering the art of oil to canvas. Long desired to display his skills and receive greater recognition for his artistry, so he arranged to create the first two frescoes in Ashe County in 1974. The fresco in St. Mary’s Church, located at 400 Beaver Creek School Road in West Jefferson, depicts both the crucifixion and ascension of Jesus Christ. In 1977, Long, with a gathering of apprentices and assistants, created a fresco of “The Last Supper” at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, located at 120
Glendale School Road in the Glendale Springs community. The fresco shows Jesus and his disciples gathered around a table for the last supper, the disciples each not knowing how the events to unfold would change their lives and the course of history. In the art form known as fresco painting, the artist presses pigment into wet plaster. The pigment becomes chemically bonded with the plaster and, in so doing, hardens with the plaster to produce a surface that is remarkably resistant to the ravages of time. Fresco paintings date back 3,000 years or more, testifying to their durability. Ashe County has been blessed with these awe inspiring and eternal art treasures. Each year, the Festival of the Frescoes is held to honor, and draw attention to, Long’s work. In 2015, the annual Festival of the Frescoes was held at Holy Trinity Church in Glendale Springs.
Despite the dreary, rainy weather, crowds still came in droves to see Long’s magnificent works of art. According to parishioner Walter Skroch, Long’s fresco depicts a few things differently in the famed “Last Supper” scene from the Holy Bible, and depicted by other artists. One example of this is a medium-sized dog in the bottom left-hand corner of the fresco. Skroch said this kind of dog would not have existed in the Middle East at that time. The dog is actually a depiction of a real dog that spent time around Long while he was painting inside Holy Trinity Church in 1977. “He told me the reason that dog is in there is because ‘he spent 47 days with me, more than any student,’” Skrotch said, quoting Long. “You don’t want to paint something exactly like someone else.” For more information about the frescoes, visit www.ashefrescoes.org.
Dennis Lacey Broker www.sugartop.com • 828-898-5226
Enjoy Breathtaking Views PRICES STARTING AT $89,900
303 Sugar Top Drive • Sugar Mountain, NC 28604
PHOTO SUBMITTED Patty Baker, left, and Chris Hoyt, of Fuquay Varina, take pictures of the fresco inside Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Glendale Springs during the 2015 Festival of the Frescoes.
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Local artist Sally Nooney shows her own artwork, such as ‘Apples!,’ as well as the artwork of others, at her gallery, Sally Nooney Gallery.
ART GALLERIES A destination for any season
T
he High Country’s infamous weather can be a dream or a nightmare during the winter, depending on where you prefer your thermostat. For those who love snow, there’s already a plethora of outdoor activities, including the snowsports that make this area such a popular destination during the colder months. Luckily, there are plenty of indoor options for those who would prefer to sit in front of the fire with a cup of hot chocolate. Art galleries are a great destination that will please every crowd. You don’t have to be an artist or an art collector to appreciate the area’s many museums, galleries and shops that showcase talent, both local and global. Appalachian State University’s Turchin Center for the Visual Arts in Boone and the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum are among the largest showcases in the High Country with collections both permanent and temporary. The area is also teeming with privately owned galleries that mostly showcase the artwork of local talent. Many private galleries even give you the option to buy paintings, pottery,
jewelry, gifts and more. Throughout the seasons, galleries also host artist receptions, exhibition openings and more. Check with an art gallery near you to find out the best way to explore the High Country’s artistic landscape.
Banner Elk The Art Cellar
920 Shawneehaw Ave. (828) 898-5175 www.artcellaronline.com
Carlton Gallery
10360 N.C. 105 South (828) 963-4288 www.carltongallery.com
Clark Gallery
393 Shaneehaw Ave. (828) 898-2095 www.chrisclarkgallery.com
Maggie Black Pottery 112 Clubhouse Dr. #1
SEE GALLERIES, PAGE 54
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Gustave Henry Mosler’s ‘Lost Cause,’ 1868, was presented at the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum in the late fall. See page 59 for more info on BRAHM.
GALLERIES FROM PAGE 53 (828) 963-2565 www.maggieblackpottery.com
Sally Nooney Gallery 7143 N.C.194 South (828) 963-7347 www.sallynooney.com
Blowing Rock Blowing Rock Gallery of Homes & Land 159 Sunset Drive (828) 414-9400 www.brghomesandland.com
Blowing Rock
Frameworks & Gallery
7539 Valley Blvd. (828) 295-0041 www.blowingrockgalleries.com
Bolick Pottery & Traditions Pottery The Martin House 1155 Main St. (828) 295-6128 www.traditionspottery.com
Blue Ridge ArtSpace
377 Shadowline Drive (828) 264-1789 www.watauga-arts.org
Doe Ridge Pottery
585-D W. King St. (828) 264-1127 www.doeridgepottery.homestead.com
Hands Gallery Morning Star Gallery
1151 Main St. (828) 295-6991 www.morningstargalleryusa.com
Boone
543 W. King St. (828) 262-1970 www.handsgallery.org
Jones House Community Center
604 W. King St. (828) 262-4576 www.joneshousecommunitycenter.org
ArtWalk
611 W. King St. (828) 264-9998 www.artwalkboone.com
Kevin Beck Studio
1590 Shull’s Mill Road (828) 963-1181
www.kevinbeck.com
Nth Degree Gallery 683 W. King St. (828) 719-9493 www.nthdegreegallery.com
Turchin Center for the Visual Arts 423 W. King St. (828) 262-3017 www.tcva.org
Linville and Newland 87 Ruffin Street Gallery 87 Ruffin St., Linville (828) 733-6449 SEE GALLERIES, PAGE 55
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‘Autumn Landscape’ by Kevin Beck hung at Carlton Gallery as a part of its annual autumn exhibition.
GALLERIES FROM PAGE 54
Anvil Arts Studio
9600 Linville Highway, Newland (828) 765-6226 www.studiosculpture.com
Pam Brewer Studio
41 Redbird Lane, Newland (828) 733-5755 www.pambrewer.com
Pineola, Crossnore and Linville Falls Linville River Pottery
P.O. Box 342 Pineola (828) 387-1944 www.linvilleriverpottery.com
Crossnore Fine Arts Gallery The Crossnore School 205 Johnson Lane (828) 733-3144 www.crossnoregallery.org
Valle Crucis Alta Vista Gallery
2839 Broadstone Road (828) 963-5247 www.altavistagallery.com
Rivercross Market
3595 N.C. Hwy 194 (828) 963-8623 www.rivercrossmadeinusa.com
West Jefferson Acorn Gallery
103 Long St. (336) 246-3388 www.acorngallery.com
The Artists’ Theatre
8 E. Main St. (336) 846-3355 www.theartiststheatre.com
Ashe Arts Center Gallery
303 School Ave. (336) 846-2787 www.ashecountyarts.org
Ashe Custom Framing & Gallery 105 S. Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-2218 www.ashecustomframing.com
Bohemia
106 N. Jefferson Ave. (336) 846-1498 www.bohemianc.com
Broomfields Gallery
414 E. 2nd St. (336) 982-2055 www.broomfieldsgallery.com
Originals Only
3-B S. Jefferson Ave.
(336) 846-1636 www.originalsonlygallery.com
R.T. Morgan Art Gallery
& Glass by Camille
120 N. Jefferson Ave. (336) 246-3328 www.rtmorganartgallery.com
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FILE PHOTO Choose-and-cut Christmas trees bring tourism to the High Country during the holiday season.
WINTER WONDERLAND Holidays in the High Country highlighted by snowy landscape
W
intry weather — especially when complemented with hot chocolate and a fireplace — emphasizes the holiday season. In other regions of North Carolina, a “white Christmas” is a far cry from reality, but in the High Country, even a white Thanksgiving isn’t too far off base. The holidays in the High Country are a special time, celebrating many religions, beliefs and histories. The season is a time to celebrate family, faith and good fortune, all the while making the world a better place for everyone. The warmth of local charity and goodwill radiates during the colder months. Area residents and visitors alike are invited to attend the area’s many holiday celebrations.
Christmas in the Park and Blowing Rock Christmas Parade Nov. 27 and 28
Every year, Blowing Rock residents and holiday visitors gather downtown at Memorial Park to mark the beginning of the Christmas season with a free celebration complete with the lighting of the town Christmas tree at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 27. Join the people of Blowing Rock for hayrides, caroling, hot chocolate and cider, carols, entertainment and family fun all afternoon. Children can meet Santa Claus in the gazebo from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Live bluegrass Christmas music with Diana and Sarvis Ridge lasts from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Don’t miss the parade the next day on Nov. 28, which begins at 11 a.m. For more information, visit www. blowingrock.com/christmas-park.
Festival of Lights
Nov. 27- Jan. 31 The same day as the Blowing Rock lights up its Christmas tree, Chetola SEE HOLIDAYS, PAGE 57
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Cultural Center to follow. For more information, visit www. downtownboonenc.com.
HOLIDAYS FROM PAGE 56 Resort in Blowing Rock lights up Chetola Lake. Visitors may take a free drive around Chetola Lake, finding brightly lit scenes such as ice skaters, a colorful train, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and nativity scenes. For more information, visit www. chetola.com/calendar.
An Appalachian Christmas – Mountain Home Music
Dec. 5 Following the Downtown Boone Christmas Parade, join Joe Shannon’s Mountain Home Music for a free concert at Grace Lutheran Church (115 E. King St.) in Boone. Beginning at 7:30 p.m., various artists will play Christmas tunes at the concert. The event benefits the Hospitality House and Santa’s Toy Box. Donations will be accepted. For more information, visit www. mountainhomemusic.com.
Inaugural Festival of Trees
Dec. 3-6 Chetola Resort hosts its first Festival of Trees in early December to showcase uniquely decorated holiday trees, wreaths and gift baskets. Proceeds go to benefit the Western Youth Network, a local nonprofit. Events include a Tree Brunch, a reception, photos with Disney characters Elsa and Olaf and a special “Kids Eat Free” night at Timberlake’s Restaurant. This free event is funded on a donation basis. The Festival of Trees takes place on Dec. 3 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Dec. 4 from 2 p.m. to 10 pm.; Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Appalachian/Blue Ridge Room at Chetola Resort.
Sisterhood Chanukah Party
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHETOLA RESORT The Festival of Lights at Chetola Resort is a fun way to brighten up the holidays.
For more information, visit www. chetola.com/calendar.
Downtown Boone Christmas Parade
Dec. 5 The Downtown Boone Christmas
Parade is an annual tradition celebrating the holidays in the heart of the High Country. The parade saunters down King Street starting at 11 a.m. Dec. 5, with hot cider and other refreshments at the Jones House Community and
Dec. 6 The Temple of the High Country hosts its annual Chanukah party on Dec. 6. Guests are asked to bring their favorite holiday finger good and a gift under $10 for the “Dirty Dreidel” gift exchange. Food, singing and fun are on the menu for this sisterhood event. For updates and more information, call (828) 266-9777. SEE HOLIDAYS, PAGE 58
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HOLIDAYS FROM PAGE 56
Choose-and-Cut Christmas trees
Starting on Thanksgiving weekend, holiday tourists begin flocking to the High Country, the “Christmas tree capital of the world,” according to the Watauga County Christmas Tree Association. Visitors make special day, weekend and weeklong trips to the mountains to find their special Christmas tree, often at many of the chooseand cut Christmas tree farms found in the region. The trees here are so renowned that even many of the Christmas trees in the White House have come from Ashe County. Visitors make a weekend out of Christmas tree choosing and stay for other activities such as Appalachian State University football games, winter sports and more. For more on the chooseand-cut season, turn to page 44.
PHOTO BY ERIKA GIOVANETTI Mrs. and Mr. Santa Claus brave the rain in 2014 to make a special visit to Boone’s downtown Christmas parade.
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BRAHM
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The Blowing Rock Art and History Museum offers something for everyone
just that. In its first four years of existence, BRAHM has emerged as a driving force for all manner of cultural offerings in the High Country. Book signings, concerts, community meetings, chamber events and school field trips have all been held at BRAHM. Programs for adults at BRAHM include the Third Thursday Lecture Series, Cork and Canvas, documentary film screenings, workshops and talks, the Scholars and Scones series, Alexander Arts Lectures and more. Programs for children include the Doodlebug Club, the Afternoon Art Club and “Mini Matinees.” This January, kids are invited to participate in BRAHM’s WinterFest Parade Puppet Workshop and then march in the first ever Blowing Rock WinterFest Snowflake Parade later that month. Of course, BRAHM wouldn’t be a first class museum without art exhibits, and it features some of the finest in the Southeast. Here are some of the current and upcoming exhibitions at BRAHM: “Elliott Daingerfield: Paintings and Drawings” in the Rankin East Gallery (ongoing). The work of American impressionist Elliott Daingerfield remains closely tied to the history of the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum. A generous donation of his paintings and drawings from Cora Ann and Lamont Hudson created the framework upon which the museum was founded. Until recently, this preliminary collection was stored in the museum’s vault, but with this exhibition, the museum will honor and reintroduce selections from its founding collection of Daingerfields and several additional Daingerfields acquired since then. Works on view for the grand opening of “Elliott Daingerfield” were selected by guest curator Jonathan Stulhman, senior curator of modern, American and contemporary art at the Mint Museum, Charlotte. Through fall 2016, the exhibition will feature Daingerfield paintings col-
lected by the artist’s grandson, Joseph Dulaney. “Ward Nichols: Look Again” in the Rankin West Gallery (now through March 26, 2016). A native of West Virginia, Ward Nichols (born 1930) made his home nearby in North Wilkesboro. His hyperrealistic paintings are visualized from photographs he takes of everlasting landscapes, abandoned structures and everyday objects. Spend a little more time with his paintings, however, and Nichols offers rewards through quirky details, such as humorous compositions, nonfunctional door hinges and hidden eyes that lock unexpectedly with those of the viewers. “Ward Nichols: Look Again” encourages visitors to ponder the mundane and experience the beautiful within it. “Selections from the Collection” in the atrium, upstairs hallway and Schaefer Rotunda (ongoing). The museum has dedicated three exhibition spaces to its permanent collection. Works in the collection range from prominent American impressionists, such as Elliott Daingerfield and William Charles Anthony Frerichs, to works by more locally based artists, including Philip Moose and Herb Cohen. The opening display is guest curated by Jonathan Stulhman, senior curator of modern, American and contemporary art at the Mint Museum, Charlotte. “A Retrospective of Eliot Clark” in the Atwell Gallery (now through March 26, 2016). Eliot Candee Clark (1883-1980) was born in New York and was poised to become a prominent artist at a young age. After a rock was thrown at his head and cracked his skull at age 8, he became bedridden for a time and immersed himself in his art. After his recovery, he exhibited at the New York Watercolor Club, the Society of American Artists and the National Academy of Design, where he eventually became an active member, exhibitor and president (1956-1959). Influenced by his father and mother, both artists, SEE BRAHM, PAGE 60
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PHOTO BY JEFF EASON Visitors inspect an original piece of art during the opening reception for the BRAHM exhibit ‘The Sculptor’s Voice.’
BRAHM FROM PAGE 59 Clark graduated high school at 15 and traveled the world, from France and India to Georgia and North Carolina, and painted plein air along the way. He became best known for his naturalistic landscapes, but was also a skilled writer and published several books on artists and arts organizations of his age. Clark died at the age of 97 in his second home in Charlottesville, Va., but his paintings remain in collections across the country, including the Metropolitan and Smithsonian. The works on display at the museum are loaned by Lamont Hudson, a close friend of Clark, and show a broad range of his work. “Truth Beneath These Hills: Uncovering the History and Heritage of Mining in Western North Carolina” in the Stevens Gallery (Dec. 3, 2016, through April 23, 2016). Geologists have a saying: “Whatever cannot be farmed, must be mined.” Few regions demonstrate this better than Western North Carolina. From the Native Americans who first uncovered minerals and gems thousands of years ago to the miners who today
excavate materials crucial to the Silicon Age, mining has profoundly shaped the technology, environment, culture and community of the High Country. “The Art of Native Plants” Competition. Area artists have been asked to photograph, draw, paint or otherwise capture the spirit of the flora native to the Appalachian Mountains. BRAHM will exhibit the best entries in a special exhibit scheduled from April through June 2016. The 2016 schedule of future exhibits at BRAHM also includes one on the history of the Blowing Rock Charity Horse Show and one on artist Elizabeth Bradford.
Admission and hours BRAHM is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday. Admission is free for BRAHM members, $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and active military personnel, $4 for students and free for children ages 4 and younger. For more information, call BRAHM at (828) 295-9099 or visit www.blowingrockmuseum.org.
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THE ARTS AT APPALACHIAN STATE University draws world-class talent to its stages
B
luegrass music might be the first thing people think of when they think of the cultural arts in the Appalachian Mountains. But because of our proximity to Appalachian State University, people in the High Country have the opportunity to enjoy stage performances by the best touring musicians, actors, dancers and other performers. With numerous first class venues, including the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts, the Broyhill Music Center at the Hayes School of Music and Valborg Theatre, ASU is constantly presenting one show after another. Many of them are free, and even the big name acts are affordable. In addition to ASU’s Performing Arts Series, the university presents its APPlause! Series featuring universitybased artists, as well as local, regional and world-renowned artists, plus many performances utilizing the school’s wealth of student and faculty talent. Here’s what’s on stage this winter: Wednesday, Dec. 2: The ASU Symphony Band performs at 8 p.m. at the Hayes School of Music. Free. Friday, Dec. 4: ASU’s annual Holiday Scholarship Concert at the Hayes School of Music at 8 p.m. Free. Friday, Jan. 29: The American Shakespeare Center presents “Julius Caesar” at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for faculty and staff, and $10 for students. (828) 262-4046. Saturday, Jan. 30: The American Shakespeare Center presents “Henry V” at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for faculty and staff, and $10 for students. (828) 262-4046. Saturday, Feb. 13: Grammy Award-winning musician Dr. John brings his New Orleans-based band The Nite Trippers to the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts for a concert beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for faculty and staff and $15 for students. (828) 262-4046. Wednesday-Sunday, Feb. 24-28: ASU’s Department of Theatre and Dance presents Bruce Norris’ 1959 play
“Clybourne Park” at Valborg Theatre. Performances are at 7:30 p.m., with an additional 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday. Tickets are $17 and $10 for students. Friday and Saturday, March 18 and 19: ASU hosts the 20th annual Banff Mountain Film Festival, featuring the best in outdoor adventure documentaries, at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts. Call (828) 262-4077 for ticket and time information. Friday-Sunday, April 1-3: The ASU Department of Theatre and Dance presents Moses Goldberg’s audience participation stage show “Aladdin” at I.G. Greer Studio Theatre. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. Thursday-Saturday, April 4-7: ASU’s Department of Theatre and Dance presents the Spring Appalachian Dance Ensemble at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts. Performances are at 7:30 each evening and tickets are $17 for adults and $10 for students. Friday, April 8: The APPlause! Series presents the Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia’s production of “The Very Hungry Caterpillar and other Eric Carle Favourites,” beginning at 10 a.m. at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts. Recommended for grades pre-K-2. Admission is $5 per person. Wednesday, April 13: Theatreworks USA presents “Junie B’s Essential Survival to School” at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts beginning at 10 a.m. Recommended for grades K-5. Tickets are $3 per person. Friday, April 22: Fusing salsa, Afro-Cuban and contemporary urban and abstract dance theater, ContraTiempo Urban Latin Dance Theater will perform at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for faculty and staff and $10 for students. (828) 262-4046. Wednesday-Sunday, April 27-May 1: ASU’s Department of Theatre and Dance presents the Broadway hit “Avenue Q” at the Valborg Theatre on campus. Performances are at 7:30 each evening, with a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday.
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PHOTO SUBMITTED Studio K Youth Ballet's production of the Tchaikovsky ballet ‘The Nutcracker’ is a holiday favorite in the High Country.
ENJOY A NIGHT OF THEATER
T
he High Country offers yearround opportunities to see live performances at local professional and community theaters, and the local theater calendar includes several holiday performances in late November and December.
Studio K Presents ‘The Nutcracker’ Join in a High Country holiday tradition as Studio K Ballet Company presents “The Nutcracker” at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts at Appalachian State University at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 13 and at 3 p.m. Dec. 14. “The Nutcracker” is a magical story of a young girl, Clara, whose toy nutcracker transforms into a brave prince and takes her on a journey into the Land of Snow and Sweets on Christmas Eve. A cast of more than 350 local dancers bring Clara’s dazzling holiday fairy tale to life. Throughout the show,
the stage sparkles with playful mice, a court of soldiers, guardian angels, graceful snowflakes, waltzing flowers, precious bonbons, party guests, ginger kids and sugar plums. The show is a wonderful way for families to start off the Christmas season. From the hundreds of glamorous costumes and colorful backdrops to the amazing growing Christmas tree and enchanting snowfall, this show takes the audience on an extraordinary journey to far away lands. For tickets, visit theschaefercenter. org or call (800) 841-2787. Ensemble Stage Blowing Rock’s Ensemble Stage is a professional theater company in operation since 2009, with more than 200 performances since it was founded. On Nov. 28 at 7 p.m., Ensemble hosts a live radio drama version of the timeless holiday classic “Miracle on 34th Street.” The show is performed in the style of a 1940s radio play, with all
the sound effects performed by foley artists live on stage in addition to special lighting effects and projections. Following up on the alwaysentertaining staged radio play is the annual holiday musical variety show, “Christmas in the High Country,” featuring music, dancing, comedy and more this December. Harkening back to the famous Andy Williams and Bing Crosby holiday TV specials of the 1960s and 1970s, this show will be performed at 7 p.m. Dec. 18 and 19 and at 2 p.m. Dec. 20. Productions take place at the Blowing Rock School Auditorium at 160 Sunset Drive in Blowing Rock. For tickets and more information, visit ensemblestage.com. Performing Arts at Appalachian State University Appalachian State University serves as not only an economic force in the High Country region, but also a cultural one, offering multiple entertainment opportunities through its
music, theater and dance programs, student programs and esteemed arts and cultural programs such as the Performing Arts Series. On Jan. 29 and 30, 2016, ASU hosts the American Shakespeare Center as it performs “Julius Caesar” on Friday and “Henry V” on Saturday. The adventure film series Banff Mountain Film Festival returns to Boone in March 2016. The university’s Department of Theatre and Dance presents the award-winning play “Clybourne Park” Feb. 24-28 at the Valborg Theatre. Also, watch out for “Aladdin” April 1-3 at I.G. Greer Studio Theatre and the Spring Appalachian Dance Ensemble April 7-9. For more information on theater at ASU, visit theschaefercenter.org and theatreanddance.appstate.edu. BeanStalk Community Theatre Since 2012, BeanStalk Community SEE ARTS, PAGE 63
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PHOTO SUBMITTED Ensemble Stage actors rehearse making sound effects for one of the company's live staged radio plays.
ARTS FROM PAGE 61 Theatre has been producing shows and offering affordable entertainment to Watauga County. Don’t miss “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” Dec. 3-5, 2015, at the Harvest House Performing Arts venue. For more information, visit beanstalkcommunitytheatre.com. Lees-McRae College Performing Arts The Lees-McRae College Performing Arts Department will present “Sondheim on Sondheim” at the Hayes Auditorium on the Banner
Elk campus Feb. 25-28. The musical was originally produced on Broadway and is presented through a special arrangement with Music Theatre International. For more information, call (828) 898-8709 to reach the Hayes Auditorium, Broyhill Theatre box office. In/Visible Theatre Founded in 2012, In/Visible Theatre’s mission is to bring new plays, new interpretations of older plays and plays infrequently produced in the area. The theater is also dedicated to using regional artists whenever possible. For more information about In/ Visible Theatre and upcoming performances, visit invisibletheatrenc.org.
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FAMILY-LIKE QUALITY SERVICE Small town general stores provide personal touch to holiday shopping
C
oming to the mountains for the holidays? Picking up that perfect tree for the living room next to the fireplace? Well, before you speed back home, be sure to stop off at one the several general stores located throughout the High Country. Nothing beats that down-home, personalized touch of quality you can’t find in those national chain stores. So, whether you’re looking to fill your stockings or your belly, our general stores will more than likely have exactly what you are looking for.
Phipps Country Store in Lansing hosts jam sessions throughout the year and is located in the former Silas Creek
PHIPPS GENERAL STORE Phipps General Store is located in Lansing at 2425 Silas Creek Road and offers a weekly jam session with local and regional musicians playing traditional mountain music every Friday at 7 p.m. For more information, call (336) 384-2382 or visit their Facebook page. TODD GENERAL STORE AND TODD MERCANTILE Built in 1914, The Todd General Store has been a staple of the High Country. Explore the rich history of Appalachia from the early 1900 displayed throughout the store. Hungry travelers can grab a bite to eat at their deli or pick up some homemade jellies. Shoppers can check out local crafts, antiques, collectibles and much more. Located at 3866 Railroad Grade Road, the store overlooks the South Fork of the New River. It is closed from Jan. 1 to March 15. For more information, call (336) 877-1067 or visit www.toddgeneralstore.com. Dubbed the “Friendliest Little
Store in Todd, North Carolina,” the Todd Mercantile offers a quaint atmosphere and delectable aromas. People have been known to drive from miles around just for a sample of their meltin-your-mouth homemade cinnamon rolls. While you’re waiting for your food to digest, make sure to look over their supply of locally handcrafted goods, pottery and T-shirts. Take a look at their events calendar as well, as they often host special dinners, dances and musical performances. The Todd Mercantile is located just across the street from The Todd General Store at 3899 Railroad Grade Road and is open Monday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call (3367) 877-5401, visit their Facebook page or visit www.toddmercantile.com. COVE CREEK STORE The Cove Creek Store has assisted customers with their grocery and hardware needs since the late 1950s and has been a cornerstone of the community ever since. Located at 1182 U.S. 321 in Sugar Grove, Cove Creek Store offers lots of gluten-free products and healthy foods and snacks. They are open Monday through Saturday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information, call (828) 297-2111 or visit their Facebook page. FRED’S GENERAL MERCANTILE Fred’s General Mercantile has the distinction of being the highest general store in America, toppling all others at a staggering 5,049 feet above sea level. A popular destination for skiers, the store offers the latest ski fashions, accessories for sale or rent, sleds, locally grown seasonal fruits and vegetables, gourmet foods and more. Open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fred’s General Mercantile is located at 501 Beech Mountain Parkway. For more information, call (828) 387-4838 or visit www.fredsgeneral.com. GRANDFATHER COUNTRY STORE Since the early 1920s, the Grandfather Country Store has been “the country store” for the eastern
FILE PHOTOS Mast General Store has several locations, including King Street in downtown Boone.
slope of Grandfather Mountain. Offering a mixture of today and yesteryear, Grandfather Country Store offers patrons a chance to surf the Web with their in-house Wi-Fi, all while comfortably basking in the warmth of their woodstove. Take a moment to enjoy a cup of their gourmet coffee or a bite of their fine pastries. If food is an afterthought, check out their aisles of local crafts, collectibles and antiques. Located at 6371 U.S. 221 South in Blowing Rock, the store is open
Thursday through Tuesday 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call (828) 295-6100 or visit www.grandfatehrcountrystore.com. MAST GENERAL STORE AND ANNEX Bringing a cool and eclectic historical vibe to the High Country, the Mast General Store is a do-not-miss on any visitor’s bucket list. SEE STORES, PAGE 65
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Todd General Store has been in business since 1914 and features memorabilia from the early 1900s on display throughout the store.
STORES FROM PAGE 64 Opening its doors in 1883, the original Mast General Store in Valle Crucis, along with the Annex, is still located at 3565 Hwy. 194 South and still offers up a 5 cent cup of coffee, creaky wooden floorboards, cast iron cookware, clothing, footwear, hardware and much, much more. The Annex, located right next door, is one of the remaining fixtures for penny candy left in the High Country. Everything from old-time favorites to the most recent sugary concoctions, it’s sure to be every kid’s dream. Both the Valle Crucis store and Annex are open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. The Boone Mast General Store is located at 630 West King St. and offers many of the same sights as sounds as the Valle Crucis original does. The Boone store is open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call (828) 963-6511, (828) 262-0000, or (866) 367-6878. You can also check them out online at www.mastgeneralstore. com or find them on Facebook.
Billed as America’s highest general store, Fred’s General Mercantile in Beech Mountain is located at 5,049 feet above sea level.
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THE HIGH COUNTRY IS WINE COUNTRY
W
inter and the holiday season are about to get a little bit more spirited in the High Country. While long spells sitting alongside a roaring fire with hot chocolate and steamy apple cider have become a favorite pastime of many during the colder months in the mountains, new regional offerings are making the rounds, thanks to a burgeoning wine industry. But how is this possible? How can these naturally fortified beverages, which begin as locally grown grapes, possibly be sustained and cultivated in an area world renowned for its Fraser fir Christmas trees? Well, what was previously thought of as being impossible is becoming a new reality in the High Country. These hillside wineries have both the mettle and metal to prove it, too. Several local vineyards have brought home silver and gold medals at the state level. Take Grandfather Vineyard and Winery, for instance.
GRANDFATHER VINEYARD AND WINERY At the 2011 North Carolina State Fair, Grandfather Vineyard and Winery won a gold medal for its Ice Wince and bronze medals for its Terrace Gold and Profile Red wines. Starting Dec. 1, the hours at the Grandfather winery will change. The vineyard will be close Tuesdays and open from noon to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. These new hours will remain in place until May 15. Dry tasting is $8 per person and $6 per person for sweet tasting. Grandfather has just released its Watauga River White, which is similar in sweetness to a moscato. Additional new wines will be coming out in January and February, which coincides with Grandfather’s next bottling period. The winery is also preparing to premier new labels this winter. It has used the same original labels since opening in 2011.
BANNER ELK WINERY A short distance up the road from the Grandfather winery is the Banner Elk Winery, which debuted in 2006. According to the winery’s website, this venue also produces prize winning
grapes into award winning wines. The winery has brought home several national and international medals, including a gold medal from the 2012 NextGen Wine Competition in California and the N.C. State Fair.
FILE PHOTO Several local wineries have won medals for their creations.
HIGH COUNTRY WINERIES Banner Elk Winery & Villa 60 Deer Run Banner Elk, NC. 28604 (828) 898-9090 www.bannerelkwinery.com Grandfather Vineyard & Winery 225 Vineyard Lane Banner Elk, N.C. 28604 (828) 963-2400 www.grandfathervineyard.com WWW.VACATIONCONDOS.COM
Linville Falls Winery 9557 Linville Falls Highway Newland, N.C. 28657
(828) 765-1400 www.linvillefallswinery.com Plumtree Valley Winery 4716 U.S. Hwy 19E Plumtree, N.C. 28664 (828) 765-9696 www.toeriverlodge.com Watauga Lake Winery 6952 Big Dry Run Road Butler, Tenn. 37640 (423) 768-0345 www.wataugalakewinery.com
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PHOTO COURTESY FLAT TOP BREWING COMPANY Flat Top Brewing Company is located at 567 Main St. in Banner Elk.
THE HIGH COUNTRY
BEER TRAIL
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very time you visit the High Country, there’s a good chance another new craft brewery has opened. Beer lovers will find plenty of deserving destinations in the area’s growing list of breweries. One of the newest to hit the High Country craft beer scene is Flat Top Brewing Company, located at 567 Main St. in Banner Elk. Flat Top became Banner Elk’s only craft brewery with up to 12 years on tap at any given time. Various restaurants and bars across the High Country have begun to carry Flat Top brews on tap. Featuring mountain spring water and locally sourced hops, Flat Top's selection includes four year-round brews, four seasonal brews and small batches. For the winter season, the taproom will be open Monday through Thursday from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and
Saturday from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. However, the brewery advises that hours are subject to change weekly, so check the “What’s On Tap” page at the company’s website, flattopbrewing.com, as well as its Facebook page. Located at Beech Mountain Resort, Beech Mountain Brewing Co. operates on seasonal hours to serve skiers, snowboarders, mountain bikers and other resort visitors. The brewery features a dozen beers and is capable of brewing up to 100 gallons per day, according to its website. Beech Mountain Resort is located at 1007 Beech Mountain Parkway. For more information and hours, call ahead at (828) 387-2011. Blind Squirrel Brewery’s brewSEE BREWING, PAGE 68
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PHOTO COURTESY FLAT TOP BREWING COMPANY You will find multiple beers on tap at Flat Top Brewing Company in Banner Elk.
BREWING FROM PAGE 67
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pub at 4716 S. U.S. 19 is located at the historic 1919 Vance Toe River Lodge in Plumtree, which also features a bed and breakfast, winery, restaurant and disc golf course. Blind Squirrel offers a variety of beers on tap and in 22-ounce bottles. Year-round hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, including a full list of what’s on tap, call (828) 7652739, or visit blindsquirrelbrewery.com In Watauga County, you will find Lost Province Brewing Co. at 130 N. Depot St. in downtown Boone, serving up house brews, wood-fired pizza and other gourmet bar food. The restaurant and taproom also offers a full calendar of activities, including trivia nights and live music. While indulging in fine brews and food, guests may also peek in at the brewery’s many fermenting vats to see how the brews they’re drinking were made. Lost Province is open Monday through Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. till 10 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 10 p.m. For more information, visit lost-
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province.com. Joining the Boone brewing community earlier this year was Booneshine, a microbrewery distributing to local restaurants and retail locations throughout the High Country. Follow the lantern to Booneshine’s tasting room, located inside Basil’s Fresh Pasta and Deli at 246 Wilson Drive, Suite L, in Boone. Basil’s hours are 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Thursday through Saturday; the restaurant is closed on Sunday. Need more information? Try the website booneshine.beer. A High Country beer tour is not complete without a stop at Appalachian Mountain Brewery, which has quickly grown into an award-winning, regional leader in craft brewing. Boone’s pioneering Appalachian Mountain Brewery opened its doors on Valentine’s Day 2013, being the first brewpub in the town for over a decade. AMB is host to open mic nights, “drink and draw,” trivia, special events and more. AMB offers more than a dozen brews on tap and donates a portion of proceeds to area nonprofits. The taproom also plays host to live music, games and many other weekly activities. The brewery and taproom are located at 163 Boone Creek Drive and are open Mondays from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., Tuesdays through Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m., Fridays from noon to 11 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 10 p.m. For more information, visit appalachianmountainbrewery.com or look the brewery up on Facebook. Also in the area, Blowing Rock Brewing Company debuted Blowing Rock Ale several years ago and later opened the Blowing Rock Ale House at the former Maple Lodge on Sunset Drive in Blowing Rock. The venue offers eight rooms and a full pub and is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday (except Wednesday) and on Sundays. Friday and Saturday hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, visit blowingrockbrewing.com. In Ashe County, Boondocks Brewing Tap Room & Restaurant is located at 108 S. Jefferson Ave. in West Jefferson, offering small batches of handcrafted beers, as well as more than 30 craft beers with a strong focus on North Carolina brews. The taproom is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 11:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Check out boondocksbeer.com for more information.
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Your Winter Times Calendar NOV. 26 TURKEY TROT: The High Country Turkey Trot 5K Race and Fun Run/ Walk will take place Thanksgiving morning on the Boone Greenway Trail at the Clawson-Burnley Park entrance. The race will kick off at 9 a.m. with the fun run/walk, for casual runners, joggers and walkers immediately following. One-hundred percent of proceeds go to provide food, shelter and life-changing services to the men, women and children of Hospitality House, a regional homeless and crisis assistance agency serving seven counties. Pumpkin pies will be awarded to the first, second and third place overall finishes for men and women. Race results will be provided in overall and age division formats, with certificates being awarded to first place in each category. Every participant will receive an exclusive Mast General Store discount coupon, available only to Turkey Trotters. Preregistration, available online at HCTurkeyTrot.org, is $30 for adults and teens and $10 for kids 12 and younger. Preregistration mailin forms can be picked up in 50 business locations around Ashe County, Boone, Blowing Rock and Banner Elk. To learn more about the High Country Turkey Trot visit HCTurkeyTrot. org or check out the Facebook event page at www.facebook.com/ events/842897302498538/.
NOV. 27 BEARD AND MUSTACHE COMPETITION: Glance at historic photos from 100 years ago and men often sported abundant facial hair. In the spirit of good fun, the West Jefferson Centennial Commission and the Cutter’s Edge Salon are hosting a competition Nov. 27 to test the robustness, creativity and sheer volume of facial hair of the men of area. Judging will take place during West Jefferson’s hometown Christmas Celebration. Arrive at 4:45 p.m. at the Back Street Park for judging. Prizes awarded at 5:15 p.m. For more information, call (336) 246-4251 or visit www.westjefferson100.com. TREE FEST: Seven thematically decorated Christmas trees will be on display at the Ashe Arts Center through Dec. 29. ARTISAN MARKET: A Black Friday Holiday Artisan Market will be held from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Nov. 27 at the
Harvest House Performing Arts Venue at 247 Boone Heights Drive, Boone. There will be free professional child care; donations are gladly accepted. A curated selection of jewelry makers, artists, photographers, ceramicists, weavers, textile artists, authors, print makers, wood workers, metal smiths, musicians and more. TREE LIGHTING: Hometown Christmas kicks off on Backstreet in West Jefferson at 5 p.m. Nov. 27 with the lighting of the community tree, a visit from Santa and friends, old-fashioned fire truck rides, hot chocolate and caroling. CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK: Blowing Rock gets a head start on the holidays with its annual Christmas in the Park and Lighting of the Town, scheduled for Nov. 27. The event includes live music, games for kids, hot cider and hot chocolate, hayrides, air walks, a visit with Santa Claus and the annual lighting of the town at dusk. The fun begins at 2 p.m. and all events are free. For more information, call (828) 295-5222. FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS: Chetola Resort in Blowing Rock lights up Chetola Lake for its annual Festival of Lights. Visitors may take a free drive around Chetola Lake, finding brightly lit scenes such as ice skaters, a colorful train, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and nativity scenes. The festival takes place through Jan. 31. For more information, visit www.chetola. com/calendar.
NOV. 28 CONCERT: Joe Shannon’s Mountain Home Music will present A Celtic Christmas with John Doyle and Duncan Wickel at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 28 at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, 259 Pilgrims Way, Boone. Admission is $20 for adult, $10 for student and free for children 12 and younger. For more information, visit www.mountainhomemusic.com. RADIO PLAY: A holiday radio play will be held at 7 p.m. Nov. 28 at the Blowing Rock School Auditorium. Ensemble Stage will present “Miracle on 34th Street.” The show is done in the syle of the 1940s radio play, with all the sound effects being performed by foley artists live on stage and includes special lighting effects and projects. Tickets are $14 for adult and
$9 for children 16 and younger. For more information, visit www.ensemblestage.com.
Proceeds will benefit the Western Youth Network. For more information, visit chetola.com/festivaloftrees.html.
HOLIDAY MARKET: A Holiday Market will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 28 at the Buckeye Recreation Center, 1330 Pine Ridge Road, Beech Mountain. There will be locally made crafts, jewelry, food and art, kids’ activities, door prizes and a bake-off. For more information, visit www.townofbeechmountain.com.
CHORAL FESTIVAL: Stop by the Ashe County Civic Center at 7 p.m. Dec. 3, as choral students from the five Ashe County schools will perform holiday choral selections. There will be individual school selections, as well as selections with all the students. Admission is $4 and tickets may be purchased at the Ashe Arts Center or at the door.
MUSIC: A Celtic Christmas with John Doyle with Duncan Wickel will be held at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 28 at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, 259 Pilgrims Way, Boone. Tickets are $18 in advance, $20 at the door and $10 for students. The event features stories, songs and tunes from Doyle’s Irish boyhood homeland. PARADE: The town of Blowing Rock will hold its annual Christmas parade beginning at 11 a.m. on Nov. 28. The parade begins at the intersection of U.S. 221 and Main Street near the Speckled Trout and winds its way down Main Street to the Edgewood Cottage. The parade features floats, horses, cloggers, local dignitaries and more. For more information, call Parks and Recreation at (828) 295-5222.
DEC. 2 MUSIC: The ASU Symphony Band performs at 8 p.m. Dec. 2 at the Hayes School of Music on campus.
DEC. 3 THEATER: BeanStalk Community Theatre will present “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” Dec. 3-5 at the Harvest House Performing Arts venue in Boone. For more information, visit beanstalkcommunitytheatre.com. EXHIBITION: A Winter Exhibition Celebration will be held at 5:30 p.m. Dec. 3 at the Blowing Rock Art and History Museum. Celebrate the opening of seven new exhibitions with free admission to the galleries, refreshments and live music. For more information, visit www.blowingrockmuseum.org. FESTIVAL OF TREES: A Festival of Trees will be held Dec. 3-6 in the Appalachian/Blue Room at Chetola Resort, Chetola Lake Drive, Blowing Rock. Donations appreciation.
MUSIC: The ASU Symphony Band performs at 8 p.m. Dec. 2 at the Hayes School of Music on the ASU campus. Free admission.
DEC. 4 GALLERY CRAWL: Galleries and studios in downtown West Jefferson will be open for everyone’s holiday shopping needs from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 4. The Ashe Arts Center will feature Tree Fest, handmade ornaments and miniature artwork. MUSIC: ASU’s annual Holiday Scholarship Concert at the Hayes School of Music at 8 p.m. Dec. 4. Free admission.
DEC. 5 FAIR TRADE MARKET: First Presbyterian Church, 131 Big Valley St., Boone, is sponsoring a Fair Trade Christmas Market from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 5 and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Dec. 6. “Your support of our artisan and farmer partners helps to build healthier and more sustainable communities worldwide,” a church spokesman said. Fair trade items start under $3 and include chocolate, food, ornaments, crèches, home goods, jewelry, scarves, bags nd more. There will also be gift cards from Heifer International and honor cards from Hospitality House of Boone available for purchase. Gift wrapping is available Saturday only. MUSIC: Joe Shannon’s Mountain Home Music will present An Appalachian Christmas featuring various artists at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 5 at Grace Lutheran Church, 115 East King St., Boone. Admission free; donations accepted. For more information, visit www.mountainhomemusic.com. SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 71
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PHOTO BY ERIKA GIOVANETTI Brave Appalachian State University students will jump into the frigid Duck Pond as a part of the Polar Plunge fundraiser.
Your Winter Times Calendar CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK: Christmas in the Park will be held at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 5 at the Tate Evans Park in Banner Elk. Visit the park and enjoy a luminary lit train ride, visit Santa at his workshop and indulge in s’mores and cookies at the town campfire. PARADE OF LIGHTS: A Parade of Lights will take place at 6 p.m. Dec. 5 in downtown Banner Elk. The night parade in downtown Banner Elk is truly magical as the marching band, floats and Santa’s fire truck sparkle in the night, according to organizers. PARADE: The Boone Christmas Parade and Celebration will be held beginning at 11 a.m. Dec. 5 on King Street in Boone. Experience small town America at its finest with a procession down King Street, complete with decorated floats, local celebrities, dance troupes, music and more. For more information, visit www.downtownbooneenc.com. LIGHTS: A Parade of Lights will be held beginning at 5 p.m. on Dec. 5 in conjunction with Banner Elk Christmas in the Park. This year, awards will be presented to the Most Lights/Brightest Car or Float, Most Creative Car or Float and Best Decorated Business Front in Banner Elk. Family-friendly activities will be held throughout the day. Activities include a holiday craft market, grand opening of the Banner Elk Book
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Exchange, a screening of the movie “Frozen,” Breakfast with Santa, cookie and ornament decorating and more. Santa will arrive in the park at the end of the parade. Also following the parade, a special tree-lighting ceremony will be held and the park will be filled with luminaries, train rides, live nativity and more. For more information, call (828) 898-8395 or click to www.bannerelk. org. ASHE LIONS 5K: The Lions Club Christmas Tree 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run/ Walk supporting the visually impaired will be held beginning at 10 a.m. Dec. 5 in downtown West Jefferson. For more information, visit www.christmastree5k.com.
DEC. 6
CHANUKAH PARTY: The Temple of the High Country hosts its annual sisterhood Chanukah party on Dec. 6. Guests are asked to bring their favorite holiday finger good and a gift under $10 for the “Dirty Dreidel” gift exchange. For more information, call (828) 266-9777.
THE MOST INCREDIBLE TOY STORE EVER! OPEN: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm • Sun 1pm-5pm through Christmas
DEC. 11
SUGARFEST: A weekend of winter fun will be held at Sugar Mountain Ski Resort Dec. 11-13. The event will feature ski and snowboard equipment demos, an adult preseason ski clinic, SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 72
3411 Hwy 321 S., Blowing Rock • Between Boone and Tweetsie • (828) 264-1422
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Your Winter Times Calendar
2015-16
FROM PAGE 71
after ski party and fireworks, a meet and greet with an Olympic silver medalist, Sugarfeast and Edge of the World mini games. For more information, visit www.seesugar.com.
DEC. 12
SANTA: Santa visits Beech Mountain from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 12 at Four Seasons Beech Mountain. Tell Santa your Christmas wishes and then enjoy hot chocolate and cookies by the roaring fire and Christmas trees at Four Seasons Beech. ELF DASH: The first Green Valley School Elf Dash takes place on a scenic river course in the Green Valley district of Watauga County during winter. It starts and ends at Green Valley Park with music, awards, costume contests and more. Santa himself will be on-site to cheer participants along and pass out awards. Don’t forget to wear your best elf costume in hopes to take home a prize. Register early to ensure an elf hat. Register at www.active.com/todd-nc/ running/distance-running-races/gvself-dash-2015. The 5K will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Dec. 12. MUSIC: The Walker Center in Wilkesboro presents “The Annie Moses Band” at 8 p.m. Dec. 12. The ensemble of six musicians, singers and songwriters deliver a cutting-edge sound by fusing American roots, folk rock, classical and jazz. Admission is $39 for adults and $37 for seniors and students. For more information, visit www.walkercenteronline.org/.
DEC. 13
“THE NUTCRACKER”: Join in a High Country holiday tradition as Studio K Ballet Company presents “The Nutcracker” at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts at ASU at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dec. 13 and at 3 p.m. Dec. 14. “The Nutcracker” is a magical story of a young girl, Clara, whose toy nutcracker transforms into a brave prince and takes her on a journey into the Land of Snow and Sweets on Christmas Eve. For tickets, visit theschaefercenter.org or call (800) 841-2787.
DEC. 18
MUSICAL VARIETY SHOW: Ensemble Stage will present “Christmas in Blowing Rock,” a holiday musical variety show at 7 p.m. Dec. 18 and Dec. 19 and at 2 p.m. Dec. 20 at the Blowing Rock School Auditorium, located on 160 Sunset Drive, Blowing Rock. Tickets are $18
PHOTO BY HUGH MORTON Clouds freeze on top of Grandfather Mountain and cover the Mile High Swinging Bridge with rime ice during a previous winter.
for adult and $9 for children 16 and younger. For more information, visit http://www.ensemblestage.com.
DEC. 19 LONG JOHN CAROLERS: The 43rd annual gathering of the Long John Carolers will take place on Dec. 19. “It’s time once again to pull out those long johns and join the joy of bringing Christmas cheer. Spouses, friends, children, cousins, neighbors and other interested parties are also invited,” a spokesman for the group said. Meet at 5 p.m. at the Horn in the West parking lot or join the group later for dinner at 7:30 p.m. at the Cracker Barrel restaurant in Boone. Caroling will resume after dinner. For more information, call Toby Atwood at (803) 984-6034 or Terry Carroll at (336) 667-6611. MRS. CLAUS: Breakfast with Mrs. Claus will be held from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Dec. 19 at the Buckeye Recreation Center at Beech Mountain, located at 1330 Pine Ridge Road. We know Mrs. Claus makes good cookies, but did you know she makes
delicious pancakes as well? Enjoy pancakes and listen to Mrs. Claus read Christmas stories. Event is free. For more information, visit www. beechrecreation.org. BONFIRE: A Yule log bonfire and hayride will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Dec. 19 at Beech Mountain. Admission is free. Sip some hot chocolate or cider and warm yourself by the famous Brick Oven Firepit. Then, board a hay wagon and enjoy Beech Mountain by starlight.
DEC. 31
NEW YEAR’S EVE: There will be New Year’s Eve fireworks and torchlight skiing at Appalachian Ski Mountain in Blowing Rock Dec. 31. There will be moonlight ice skating from 10 p.m. to midnight. There will also be restaurant specials available from 9 p.m. to midnight. For more information, visit www.appskimtn.com.
JAN. 28
WINTERFEST: Blowing Rock will hold the WinterFest celebration Jan.
28-31. The four-day event, presented by the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce, features the Polar Plunge at Chetola Lake, WinterFeast, an ice carving competition, Chilly Chili CookOff, Little Miss WinterFest Pageant and much more. For more information or tickets to events, call the Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce at (828) 295-7851.
JAN. 29 THEATER: The American Shakespeare Center presents “Julius Caesar” at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the ASU campus at 7 p.m. Jan. 29. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for faculty and staff and $10 for students. For more information, call (828) 262-4046.
JAN. 30 THEATER: The American Shakespeare Center presents “Henry V” at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts at 7 p.m. Jan. 30. SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 73
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Discover the scenic splendor of paradise on Beech Mountain
Nestled on the Banner Elk side of Beech Mountain Exquisite Cuisine by Award Winning Chef Jason Meier
PHOTO BY ERIKA GIOVANETTI Use caution while driving through the mountains in the winter.
Your Winter Times Calendar Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for faculty and staff and $10 for students. For more information, call (828) 262-4046.
FEB. 13 MUSIC: Grammy Award-winning musician Dr. John brings his New Orleans-based band The Nite Trippers to the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the ASU campus for a concert beginning at 7 p.m. Feb. 13. Tickets are $30 for adults, $25 for faculty and staff and $15 for students. For more information, call (828) 262-4046.
FEB. 24 THEATER: ASU’s Department of Theatre and Dance presents Bruce Norris’ 1959 play “Clybourne Park” Feb. 24-28 at the Valborg Theatre on the ASU campus. Performances are at 7:30 p.m., with an additional 2 p.m. matinee on Feb. 28. Tickets are $17 for adults and $10 for students.
FEB. 25 MUSICAL: The Lees-McRae College Performing Arts Department will present “Sondheim on Sondheim” at the Hayes Auditorium on the Banner Elk campus Feb. 25-28. The musical was originally produced on Broadway and is presented through a special arrangement with Music Theatre International. For more information, call (828) 898-8709 to reach the Hayes Auditorium, Broyhill Theatre
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box office.
MARCH 11
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BIRTHDAY: The Blowing Rock Historical Society and the town of Blowing Rock invite the public to help celebrate Blowing Rock’s 127th birthday on March 11 at the Blowing Rock Town Hall. The Historical Society will also present special historical Markers to significant buildings and sites in town. Stories will be shared, refreshments served.
MARCH 18 FILM FESTIVAL: ASU hosts the 20th annual Banff Mountain Film Festival March 18 and 19, featuring the best in outdoor adventure documentaries, at the Schaefer Center. Call (828) 262-4077 for ticket and time information.
MARCH 19 EASTER EGG HUNT: The Blowing Rock Easter Egg Hunt will be held on March 19 in Blowing Rock Memorial Park in downtown. Games and activities start at 10 a.m. and the Easter egg hunt at 11 a.m. There will be a visit from the Easter Bunny during the games. For more information, visit http://www.blowingrock.com.
MARCH 20
EGGSTRAVAGANZA: The SEE CALENDAR, PAGE 80
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Serving Breakfast and Lunch All Day 14 Varieties of Freshly Baked Bagels Vegetarian and Gluten Free Options Available Featuring: Deli Sandwiches, Fresh Salads, Home made Flavored Cream Cheeses, Omelettes, Pancakes, French Toast, Burgers, Gyro Free Delivery
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Coffee Bar with Espresso, Latte and Cappuccino drinks, with Bald Guy Brew Coffee Gourmet Lunch Menu Featuring: Turkey Apple Grilled Cheese, Fresh Chicken Salad w/Blueberry Balsamic, Lox Hash, Burgers, Deli Sandwiches Breakfast served All Day: Omelettes, Pancakes, French Toast Vegetarian and Gluten Free Options Free Delivery
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Unique and varied menu offerings that you’ll want to experience again and again!
Red Onion Dine in the cool mountain air, rain or shine, on our covered outdoor patio! 227 Hardin Street, Boone, NC 28607
828.264.5470
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Toasty Tuesday’s • Free Chili & Bonfire • $5 T-Shirt • $4 Glass of our famous BE Red or White Wine
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Monday Wing Night (4pm-close) 45¢ Wings/55¢ Boneless Wings $4 House Vodka Drinks $1.50 Fatty Natty Bottles
Tuesday $2 Hot Dogs (toppings additional) $2.50 Coors Light Bottles $4.50 LIT’s & Blue Motorcycles $4 Fireball Shots ASU Coaches Show at 7pm League Darts
Wednesday Team Trivia 7pm Karaoke 9pm $1.50 Tacos (toppings additional) $2.50 Dos XX Pints $9 Dos XX Pitchers $4 Margaritas/$12 Pitchers
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2015-16
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HOURS: LENOIR: BOONE: Mon-Thurs: 11am-10 pm Blowing Rock Blvd. Call for Take Out Fri & Sat: 11am-11pm Next to Cook-Out 828-265-1674 Sun: 11am-9:30 pm 828-726-3180 New Market Center www.dosamigosboone.com
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Chinese, Japanese, Sushi & Thai 100% No M.S.G. 240 Shadowline Dr., AA3 + AA4 - Boone Inside Harris Teeter Shopping Center
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2015-16
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14 Drafts Import & Micro Brews
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PHOTO BY ERIKA GIOVANETTI Skiers and snowboarders gather for lessons near the base at Appalachian Ski Mountain.
Your Winter Times Calendar annual Downtown Boone Easter Eggstravaganza is a fun, family friendly event for the whole family the Saturday before Easter weekend. The town of Boone, the Watauga County Library and the Downtown Boone Development Association together provide arts and crafts, games and an Easter Egg hunt for children up to 12 years of age. The fun starts at 2 p.m. March 20 at the Watauga County Public Library located on Queen Street in downtown Boone. Children then “parade” down to the Jones House Community Center for more games and an Easter egg hunt. There will be free refreshments, prizes and more.
APRIL 1 THEATER: The ASU Department of Theatre and Dance presents Moses Goldberg’s audience participation stage show “Aladdin” April 1-3 at I.G. Greer Studio Theatre on the ASU cam-
pus. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students.
APRIL 4 THEATER: ASU’s Department of Theatre and Dance presents the Spring Appalachian Dance Ensemble at the Schaefer Center for Performing Arts April 4-7. Performances are at 7:30 each evening and tickets are $17 for adults and $10 for students.
APRIL 8 TWEETSIE: Tweetsie Railroad opens for the 2016 season on April 8. North Carolina’s oldest theme park opens for another season of wild west fun and excitement. Old-fashioned steam engines, rides, the deer park habitat, live shows and special events are featured. For more information, visit http://www.tweetsie.com. CHILDREN’S THEATER: The APPlause! Series presents the
FROM PAGE 73
Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia’s production of “The Very Hungry Caterpillar and other Eric Carle Favourites,” beginning at 10 a.m. April 8 at the Schaefer Center for the performing Arts on the ASU campus. The performances are recommended for grades PreK-2. Admission is $5 per person.
APRIL 13 CHILDREN’S THEATER: Theatreworks USA presents “Junie B’s Essential Survival to School” beginning at 10 a.m. April 13 at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts on the ASU campus. The performances are recommended for grades K-5. Tickets are $3 per person.
APRIL 14
SAVOR BLOWING ROCK: Formerly the Blue Ridge Wine & Food Festival, Savor Blowing Rock celebrates food, drink, culture and entertainment in Blowing Rock April
14-17. There will be a grand tasting, seminars, concerts, pairings and more. For more information, visit www. savorblowingrock.com.
APRIL 22 DANCE: Fusing salsa, Afro-Cuban and contemporary urban and abstract dance theater, Contra-Tiempo Urban Latin Dance Theater will perform at the Schaefer Center for the Performing Arts at ASU beginning at 7 p.m. April 22. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for faculty and staff and $10 for students. For more information, call (828) 2624046.
APRIL 27 THEATER: ASU’s Department of Theatre and Dance presents the Broadway hit “Avenue Q” April 27-May 1 at Valborg Theatre on the ASU campus. Performances are at 7:30 each evening, with a 2 p.m. matinee on May 1.
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ADVERTISER INDEX
4 Seasons Vacation .................................................. 33
Dutch Creek Trails................................................... 14
Over Yonder............................................................. 14
Action Auto Glass .................................................... 69
Echota ................................................................ 41, 84
Parker Tie ................................................................ 33
AJ’s Tire & Auto ...................................................... 69
Fairway Cafe & Venue ............................................. 74
Past and Present ...................................................... 33
Anna Banana ........................................................... 18
Family Billiards ................................................. 41, 78
Peabody’s Wine & Beer Merchants .........................20
Antiques on Howard ............................................... 19
Festiva Hospitality Group ....................................... 66
Pedalin’ Pig BBQ ..................................................... 74
App Regional Health Care.......................................50
Flat Top Brewery ............................................... 23, 49
Perry’s Gold Mine .................................................... 61
APP Urgent Care ..................................................... 35
Foscoe Rentals.........................................................83
Petal Pushers ........................................................... 33
Appalachian Antique Mall ...................................... 18
Fred’s General Mercantile ....................................... 49
Proper ...................................................................... 18
Appalachian Ski Mtn ............................................... 29
Gamekeeper..............................................................31
Ram’s Rack .............................................................. 18
Ashe County Arts ..................................................... 33
Gideon Ridge ........................................................... 79
Recess Ski Shop ....................................................... 53
Ashe County Chamber............................................. 33
Grandfather Mountain ............................................ 55
Red Onion................................................................ 74
Banner Elk Café & Espresso Lodge ......................... 23
Green Park Inn .......................................................... 8
River Street Ale House ............................................ 19
Banner Elk Consignment Cottage ........................... 23
Hampton’s Body Shop............................................. 69
Rivercross .......................................................... 14, 40
Banner Elk Winery .................................................. 75
Hawksnest ............................................................... 32
Rustique................................................................... 77
Barra Sports Bar ...................................................... 78
Hickory Furniture Mart .......................................... 63
SageSport................................................................. 39
Beech Mtn Resort .................................................... 37
High South Wrecker ................................................ 69
Seven Devils ............................................................ 56
Benchmark Provisions ............................................ 19
highcountrync.com ..................................... 47, 68, 81
Six Pence Pub .......................................................... 79
Bistro Roca .............................................................. 79
Hotel Tavern ............................................................ 78
SkyBest .....................................................................71
Blackberry Creek Mattress ................................41, 59
Incredible Toy Company ..........................................71
Snow Toys................................................................ 35
Blowing Rock Chamber of Commerce ....................30
Jackalope’s View...................................................... 73
Sorrento’s ................................................................ 78
Blowing Rock Frameworks ..................................... 47
Jenkins Rentals ....................................................... 59
Stonewalls ............................................................... 23
Blowing Rock Furniture .......................................... 57
Jim’s Corner Furniture ........................................... 33
Sugar Mountain Resort ........................................... 27
Boone Bagelry..................................................... 18,73
Kincaid....................................................................... 3
Sugar Top Resort ..................................................... 52
Boone Mall............................................................... 34
Lazy Bear Lodge ...................................................... 14
Sunalei Preserve ......................................................82
Boone Winter Farmers Market ............................... 21
Lees McRae.............................................................. 39
Sushi Club................................................................ 78
BRAHM ...................................................................30
Libby’s................................................................ 33, 67
Tapp Room .............................................................. 76
Brushy Fork Auto Service ....................................... 69
Lost Province ........................................................... 18
Taste Grill ................................................................ 77
C|R Catering ............................................................ 74
Lucky Penny ............................................................ 18
Tatum Galleries & Interiors .................................... 41
Cabin Store, The ...................................................... 58
Makoto’s .................................................................. 75
Taylor House Inn..................................................... 14
Café Portofino .......................................................... 75
Mast Farm Inn......................................................... 14
The Rock .................................................................. 75
Capones ................................................................... 18
Mast General ........................................................2, 14
Tis The Season ......................................................... 33
Caracole ..................................................................... 3
Mountain Dog ......................................................... 25
Town Tavern Boone ................................................ 76
Carlton Gallery .........................................................17
Mountain Home and Hearth .................................. 25
Turchin Center ........................................................ 65
Casa Rustica ............................................................ 74
Mountain Lumber Co. ............................................. 41
United Muffler Shop................................................ 69
Cha Da Thai ............................................................. 19
Mountain Outfitters ................................................ 34
Valle Crucis B & B.................................................... 14
Charlie’s Auto Parts ................................................. 69
Mountain Times ...................................................... 21
Valle Crucis Bakery & Café ...................................... 14
Chick-fil-A ............................................................... 77
Mountainside Lodge B&B ....................................... 14
Valle Crucis Log Cabin Rentals ............................... 14
Cilantros’s ................................................................ 18
My Best Friend’s Barkery ........................................ 23
Village Inns of Blowing Rock ..................................30
Crossnore School ..................................................... 45
Mystery Hill ..............................................................13
Village Real Estate...................................................60
Dan’l Boone Inn ...................................................... 77
New Public House, The ........................................... 79
Water Wheel Cafe .................................................... 73
Dewoolfson ........................................................ 41, 46
Nick’s Restaurant .................................................... 76
Wing N’ It ................................................................ 35
Dianne Davant & Associates ................................7, 41
Old World Galleries ................................................. 19
Woodlands Barbecue .............................................. 79
Dos Amigos.............................................................. 76
Our Daily Bread ....................................................... 74
Zuzda ....................................................................... 23
HighCountryNC.com
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WINTER TIMES
2015-16